Answer these 7 questions to find the right home security system

1. Is it wireless?

Anyone can set up SimpliSafe in just a few minutes. No drilling. No tools. Just plug in the Base Station, place your sensors, and start protecting your home.

Learn about our wireless sensors

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2. How long does it take to set up?

The great thing about modern security systems is that many can be set up in minutes, and all by yourself! Modern sensors are so lightweight that you can use command strips — you know, the sticky strips you use to hang up posters and clothes hooks — to secure your equipment. It’s literally just peel and stick. If you do opt for a security system that requires professional installation, make sure you trust the technicians and have a large amount of time set aside for them to work in your home.

See how easy it is to install a DIY system

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3. Do you have to sign a contract?

Most security providers will require that you sign a contract, but these can vary a lot by length. Before you sign anything, make sure you’re happy with the number of years that the company requires, as these contracts are notoriously hard to break. Do some quick arithmetic too, to make sure that your investment makes sense. Some companies won’t make you pay for the hardware up front, but will instead charge a large monthly fee for years. Find out how much you’re actually paying in the long run, and make sure you’re not shelling out more than you need to. If all that sounds like a hassle, you can also find companies with month-to-month monitoring payments. They’re often a lot cheaper when you consider the total cost over multiple years, and you have the added flexibility of being able to cancel payments at any time.

Learn about our no-contract monitoring plans

4. What safety sensors does it have?

The bread and butter of security systems are motion sensors, but there are many more that provide extra layers of protection. Look for systems that offer door & window (or “entry”) sensors, glassbreak sensors, temperature sensors, and more. Smoke & carbon monoxide detectors in particular should be high up on your list. Traditional smoke and CO detectors only sound a local alarm. They don’t automatically call the fire department to send help right away. But a modern security system with professional monitoring will — and that’s our next topic.

Discover what whole home security looks like

5. Can you get professional monitoring?

You don’t need to be ever-vigilant just to stay safe. When you have professional monitoring, it doesn’t matter if you’re out of the house, have your phone off, or anything — they have your back 24/7 against fires, intrusions, and other emergencies. That’s not the case with self monitoring with camera recordings. A self-monitored system will sound a local siren — and maybe send you a text message — but what if you’re not available? Can you really be on the lookout 24/7 to ensure your home and family’s safety? If peace of mind is a top priority for you, then professional monitoring is a must.

Explore the benefits of professional monitoring

6. What do the experts say?

A lot of new home security systems look pretty similar, but their quality varies immensely. Check out some reviews to make sure that you’re getting a reliable and trusted security system. The last thing you want is to take a chance on an unknown new provider, and be left out to dry after putting in hundreds or thousands of dollars into a scam or incompetent company. And unfortunately, that is all too common in the security industry.

Listen to what the experts are saying

7. Is security the company’s #1 priority?

Privacy and security are essential when trusting a company with your family’s safety. There are a couple things you can do to make sure you choose a company that makes a real commitment to both. Do a quick search to see if there have been any major hacks or privacy breaches. Privacy policies are often confusing and filled with legal jargon, but what a company is really allowed to do with your system and personal information comes to light quickly when there’s a scandal. Find out what other products and services the company offers. If security isn’t their main focus, they probably aren’t dedicating as much time and effort into building a really robust system that respects your privacy. Worse, they may openly state that they collect your data and use it to improve their other products — and that tells you a lot about where their priorities lie.

Take a peek at an honest privacy policy

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The simple answer

Get an award-winning wireless security system that can be set up in minutes, all by yourself. We guarantee that our only business is keeping you safe, and we’ve got a top-notch interactive monitoring center to ensure your protection. And you’ll never have to sign a contract.

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