Just about anyone who wants an affordable home security system can buy one these days. Thanks to wireless technology, home security is more affordable than ever before. Yet some people still choose wired systems. Why? Moreover, are wired systems inherently better?
Whether or not you should opt for a wired security system depends on a long list of factors. You need to consider your circumstances, how your home is laid out, your home security budget, and more.
If you want a detailed guide that lays out the pros and cons of wired security systems, check out a post published on the Vivint Smart Home website. It has a ton of great information. This post will highlight some of the most important pros and cons.
5 Reasons to Choose Wired
A wired home security system is one that relies on traditional wires and cables to operate. For power, it is connected directly to your home’s electrical system. It runs on that system the same way your lights and appliances do. As for communication, it is wired to a landline telephone line or cable TV system.
Here are the top five reasons to choose a wired system over wireless:
1. Wired Is More Secure
Unlike wireless systems that can be hacked by creative intruders with the right wireless equipment, wired systems are inherently more secure. They cannot be accessed remotely. They do not rely on internet connections. With a wired system, you rarely have to worry about things like hacking your video cameras and tormenting your children.
2. There Are No Batteries Involved
Truly wireless security devices are usually powered exclusively by batteries. You need to constantly pay attention so that you are ready to change batteries as soon as necessary. With a wired system, there are no batteries to worry about – with the possible exception of backup batteries that are installed just in case the power goes out.
3. There Are No Coverage Gaps
Source: thearchitecturedesigns.com
Because a wired security system connects every component with hard wires, there are no coverage gaps like you have with wireless systems. You do not need signal boosters and wi-fi hubs to guarantee every device in the system communicates. That means fewer headaches.
4. No internet is Needed
A wired system does not rely on the internet for connectivity. Likewise, it also does not store video footage in the cloud. So even if your internet goes out, security cameras can continue recording and storing video data. That’s a big help if you live in an area where internet service is sketchy.
5. They Are Harder to Disable
A wireless security system is all but disabled if the internet and power are interrupted. On the other hand, a wired system is harder to disable if it’s equipped with battery backup. The system keeps running whether an intruder cuts the power or a storm knocks it out.
5 Reasons to Avoid Wired
Source: securityinfo.com
Wired home security systems certainly have their advantages. However, they also have some disadvantages. The question is this: what carries more weight? Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages, or vice-versa?
Here are the top five reasons to avoid going with a wired system:
1. They Tend to Be More Expensive
Because there’s so much more involved in designing and installing a wired system, the wired option tends to be more expensive. Where you can buy a decent wireless system for a few hundred dollars, a basic wired system could cost you several times more. You could spend thousands on a top-of-the-line system with full redundancy built in.
2. Installation Tends to Be Intrusive
Installing a wired security system as a home is being built is the best way to do it. On the other hand, installing a wired system in an existing home is often intrusive. Contractors need to cut into the walls to run wires and cables. Modifications to the home’s electrical system may be necessary. There is just no easy way to do it.
3. Installation Can Be Aesthetically Displeasing
In some cases, the combination of installation limitations and a home’s design features leave certain parts of a wired system exposed. For example, sometimes you just cannot help but see wires extending from sensors or cables plugged into video cameras. Wireless home security eliminates those aesthetic hiccups.
In addition, architectural constraints may partially determine where certain devices can be installed. This can lead to additional aesthetic problems. There is really no way to know for sure until a designer looks at your home and determines what can and cannot be done.
Source: 21oak.com
4. They Lack Remote Control
Though there are exceptions to every rule, a typical wired home security system cannot be controlled remotely. That’s because it’s not connected to the internet. Monitoring is accomplished through a landline or cable phone connection rather than a router and ISP. If remote access is important to you, wired may not be the best choice.
5. A Wired System Is Permanent
By its nature, a wired home security system is installed permanently. You pay for the equipment and installation and that’s that. Should you decide to move, you cannot pack up your equipment and take it with you – at least not easily. If the new owners choose not to pay for monthly monitoring, they are left with a wired system that does little more than making noise.
Adding Home Automation Devices
Beyond the pros and cons of wired security systems, today’s consumers also need to think about adding home automation devices. Everything from thermostats to lighting to window shades can be automated. Companies sell fully integrated systems that combine security and home automation in a single package.
Is a wired home security system better than its wireless counterpart? No. It is not any worse, either. Choosing between wired and wireless involves a laundry list of factors that change from one person to the next. Whatever meets most of your needs while staying within your budget is likely the best choice. That’s what you should focus on.
