Remote on a home security system

We have a monitored system, equipment is DSC, we own it- not the company. Use an app called Home Control Flex to remote in from smart phones or computer browsers. Can arm, disarm, change settings, get history, text or email when people come or go etc... It's $5 monthly subscription for the HCF option.

Ours is somewhat of a hybrid.

Firstly, we use an ADT security system in the S&B. It is older but we are able to remotely turn it off and on.

We also use several IP cameras that send emails/alerts to our phones which captures 4 pictures in a row 1 second apart. Those are also remotely viewable. We just use the IP address, others use a dynamic DNS service for easier access.

Accessing S&B cameras remotely (and having them email/alert) means you always have to have internet active in the house.

simplisafe.com

my home came with an alarm system but they wanted a monthly fee to monitor it. I bought this and it is a very easy install I did myself. I get emails or texts anytime the system is armed or disarmed. I also bought four of these so I can view/record from anywhere. I also have a wifi thermostat but you didn't ask about that (PM me if you want that info). Good luck

All I think of is those funny commercials where the bank is being robbed and the security guard is there and the customer asks "aren't you going to do anything?" Answer... "I'm only a security monitor"

So, you get a call on your cell phone... You can WATCH all your vid cams showing the bad guys robbing you.... What are you going to do? Sure, call 911 and get the police going, but the deed is done... They will be gone long before the police get there...

I've got security cams around my house, but not connected to the internet.. I've been broke into before.. Before I had the cams.. I've had bad guys come to my door when I was home, but that's the only time the vid cams came in handy.. I saw them, knew they were bad and got them to leave without incident.

I'm armed too, but that has never come into play to date..

Do what you need to do of course.. Just know that you can only do so much, but the bad guys might still get in..

Good luck!

Mitch

Gonzo42 wrote:
Lotsa ads these days on security systems allowing remote operation/monitoring of one's brick-n-sticks home.

Has anyone used one of these systems? I have seen about 4 different ones advertised and the monthly charge varies quite a bit.

Can one really use one while on the road?

We use a system that displays the temps, humidity, etc., at our Adirondack cottage on our phones and laptops wherever we are, sending email or text alerts when certain parameters are exceeded, and there are remotely controlled thermostats, webcams, etc., so remotely monitoring and/or controlling an alarm system is certainly doable.

If you're into home automation, you can do all sorts of things remotely. You can monitor cameras, you can lock or unlock doors, you see what doors are open or closed, etc, etc, etc And you can do it all from your phone with no additional monthly charge.

I can't answer your question, but I did see a piece on television where a thief was being interviewed. He said he liked hitting houses with security systems since he figured they must have stuff to protect. He avoided houses with cars in the driveway as well as those with dogs.