Home Security Blog and Resources

DIY vs. Professional Home Security Systems Overview Choosing between a DIY home security system and a professional home security system is a big decision for homeowners. A DIY system gives you control with easy installation, flexible hardware, and monthly monitoring that you can cancel anytime. Meanwhile, professional systems come with expert installation, reliable 24/7 monitoring, and comprehensive service—but usually come with a higher price tag and longer contracts. Here’s a quick comparison at a glance: Feature DIY System Professional System Setup Cost $150-$600 equipment $500-$2,500 including install Monthly Monitoring $0-$30 base plans, optional add-ons $30-$60 depending on service level Monitoring Reliability Internet/cellular, user-managed 24/7 professional with backup systems Smart-Home Integration Strong, customizable Varies - some brands offer smart features Contracts No contracts, cancel anytime Often 1-3 year contracts Maintenance & Support DIY troubleshooting or online help Professional maintenance & support Installation Self-installed, tool-free kits Technician-installed, more complex What Is a DIY Home Security System? A DIY home security system is a do-it-yourself kit that typically includes a base station or hub, door/window sensors, motion detectors, and cameras. Brands like Ring, SimpliSafe, Wyze, and Abode offer popular entry points. These systems connect via Wi‑Fi or cellular and include a mobile app for arming, disarming, and viewing live video. Setup is fast—often under an hour—with adhesive strips and plug-and-play devices. You install sensors on doors and windows, plug in the hub, and follow app prompts. Optional extras like video doorbells, glass-break detectors, smart locks, and flood sensors are available to customize based on your needs. DIY appeal lies in affordability, no contracts, and full control. Typical monthly monitoring starts at $0 for alerts-only or $10–$30 for full security monitoring. See Best DIY Companies What Is a Professional Home Security System? Professional systems involve a licensed installer setting up equipment like control panels, wired sensors, motion detectors, and security cameras. Brands like ADT, Vivint, and Brinks offer professional services with onsite installation. These systems often connect via cellular and landline for increased reliability. Because service and monitoring are handled by trained technicians, users receive immediate alarm response from a monitoring center. Contract lengths typically range from 1 to 5 years, depending on chosen plan. Monitoring includes dispatching police, fire, or medical services, with regular maintenance and equipment inspections included in the package. Professional systems are ideal for homeowners who want security handled end-to-end without self-install challenges. See Top Pro Companies Pros and Cons of DIY Home Security Pros: Affordable equipment cost: Startup kits range from $150 to $600. No contracts: Cancel monthly monitoring at any time. Flexibility: Easily add cameras, sensors, and smart-home devices. Quick setup: Install in under an hour using adhesives or plugs. Cons: Limited professional installation: Users risk errors in sensor placement. Monitoring reliability varies: Dependent on your internet or cellular backup. Self troubleshooting: All technical issues fall on the user. Fewer response guarantees: Monitoring center may not dispatch police. Pros and Cons of Professional Security Systems Pros: Professional installation: Technicians install equipment and ensure proper placement. Reliable 24/7 monitoring: Central station operates with cellular and backup systems. Maintenance included: Most contracts cover annual inspections and device replacements. Greater credibility: Professionals provide consistent service and fast response. Cons: High upfront cost: Systems typically cost $1,000–$2,500 installed. Monthly contracts: Lock-in 1–5 years with early termination fees. Less flexibility: Custom changes may require technician visits. Smart-home support varies: Some systems have limited integrations. Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Professional Upfront Equipment Cost DIY systems start at $150–$600 for a basic kit. Add-ons like extra cameras or sensors range from $20 to $200 each. Professional systems with installation typically cost between $500 and $2,500, depending on features and property size. Monthly Monitoring Fees DIY plans range from free (alerts only) to $10–$30/month for full monitoring. Professional plans range from $30 to $60 per month. DIY allows flexibility, while professionals often require multi-year contracts. Installation Costs DIY installation is free and takes under an hour. Professional systems have installation fees included, valued at $100–$500, depending on system complexity. Installation and Maintenance Differences With DIY systems, you manage installation and troubleshooting. Most systems use adhesive tape or screw-in mounts, though initial calibration and app integration are user-led. Maintenance involves replacing batteries, ensuring firmware updates, and dealing with app notifications. Professional systems are installed by technicians who handle wiring, sensor placement, and network configuration. These services include periodic maintenance and troubleshooting, ensuring the system remains operational with cellular backup and professional monitoring. Which One Is Right For You? Choose a DIY home security system if you: Have a tight budget Live in a rental or plan to move Prefer tech control and flexibility Are comfortable installing and managing devices Consider a professional home security system if you: Own a large or older home with wiring complexity Want reliable 24/7 monitoring and automatic emergency dispatch Prefer not to deal with installation or technical issues Want long-term protection backed by professional service Tenants and tech-savvy homeowners benefit from DIY. Families or homeowners wanting no-hassle, reliable security should consider professional systems. Compare Top Companies FAQ: DIY vs. Professional Home Security 1. Are DIY security systems as effective as professional ones? DIY systems can be just as effective in monitoring and deterring crime if sensors are well-placed, your internet is reliable, and you choose quality equipment. Professional systems offer extra reliability through cellular backup and faster emergency dispatch. 2. Can I switch from a DIY to a professional system later? Yes—you can scale up. Many professional services allow you to integrate existing sensors or cameras. Others may require a full system swap. Consult your provider ahead of time for compatibility information. 3. What happens if a DIY system stops working or needs repairs? You’ll need to diagnose issues like low batteries or Wi‑Fi outages. Most brands offer online support, chat help, or forums. With professional systems, technicians handle repairs and maintenance under your contract. Final Takeaway Deciding between DIY and professional home security comes down to your budget, technical comfort, and how much responsibility you want. Both types serve the same goal: protecting your family and property. DIY offers affordability and flexibility, while professional systems guarantee reliability and expert support. 

Home security systems are rapidly becoming more affordable as technology continues to advance. In recent years, systems have also adopted home automation tools like thermostat regulation and remote light switches. Regardless, all systems can operate the basics of arming your doors and windows and emitting an alarm when the sensors are triggered. Here's an in-depth look at how home security systems operate and what that means for you. Components To understand how a home security system operates, you should understand a few of the basic components to a home security system: Keypad—This is the "brain" to your system. All of your sensors and cameras communicate with this unit, usually attached to a wall in a central location in your home. With some newer systems including smart home features, your smartphone could double as a keypad. Video cameras—These are more common with a DIY unmonitored system but are offered by many professional monitoring companies as well. Often, you can stream live footage to your smartphone and receive notifications when the cameras detect movement. Window and door sensors—These sensors come in two pieces: one piece is attached to the edge of a door or window, and the other is attached to the edge of the door or window frame next to it. These are the most standard features of a home security system. When the system is armed and the pieces become detached from each other, the magnetic sensors inside them are triggered and your system registers a break-in. Yard sign—More useful than you may think, the mere presence of a yard sign indicating a monitored security system tells would-be burglars to back off. You'll be able to arm and disarm your system at will from the central keypad, your smartphone, or both, depending on the package you ordered. When a sensor is triggered, the brain of the system will send a cellular, landline, VoIP, or internet signal to a professional monitoring station. But first, it has to be installed. Installation When it comes to installation, most home security systems will be installed yourself or by a licensed professional. Do-it-yourself systems are fairly common. You can pick them up at most major hardware stores and install them in a weekend. However, these systems usually consist of only video cameras and don't have the full capabilities of a professionally monitored system. Some top-rated companies have taken the best of both worlds and adopted a system of providing consumers with do-it-yourself installation while still providing professionally monitored service. In regards to professional installation, you know you'll have a team of certified professionals installing a security system when they show up at your door. However, this means that they'll need to set an appointment in order to come to your home and install all the equipment, which may come at an inconvenience to you. You might have to take a day off work and put up with a lot of noise before your system is fully installed and operational. Once your security system is installed and activated, it will immediately be monitored by a remote team of representatives. Monitoring An alarm monitoring station (aka a "central station") is a location where home security systems are monitored for burglaries, fires, carbon monoxide, and other disasters. These stations are monitored 24/7 to make sure whenever a disaster strikes, there is someone on task to react accordingly. The best central stations will be certified by Underwriters Laboratories, a leader in measuring and accrediting performance capabilities. The organization has strict certification standards that cover a variety of different industries, so keep an eye out for them when considering a home security company. Keep in mind that a professional monitoring station is important because this is the station that will send a signal to local police. When a signal is sent to the station from a security system encountering a break-in, fire, or another disaster, a professional at the monitoring station can dispatch local authorities to check on your residence. Sometimes these signals can be accidents, like opening your window after you've armed your system, but in any case, a professional is available to keep an eye on your system all day, every day. So what? Maybe you're thinking a home security system isn't a big deal. After all, only 17 percent of U.S. homes operate with a security system. But if you've decided that you want to take the extra measure to protect your home and your valuables, look into top companies that offer the best in pricing and equipment.