With the digital revolution having made its way into our homes, there are now several new security systems available which you can use as an alternative to a security company's services. Artificial intelligence and "the Internet of things" (IOT) have made it possible for our cellphones and tablets to connect and exchange data with the IOT (a network of physical devices), making them a security alternative.
According to a City Press article, the most basic form of an IOT network can detect an incident and transmit a message to the device of your choice, such as your tablet or cellphone. Reshaad Sha, the CEO of SqwidNet, a wholesale provider of IOT security systems, mentions that "security companies specialise in responding to your call for help, which technology doesn't offer yet".
He says whilst response can't be replaced that easily, you could have an IOT-enabled intrusion detection system that can send alerts to your neighbourhood watch, community, neighbours or to you, the homeowner. Having said that, here are five ways technology is changing home security.
1. Smart door locks
By using Bluetooth on your smartphone or key fob, smart door locks can detect your presence automatically and unlock the door for you. According to a HuffingtonPost article on how technology is changing home security, the most advanced digital door locks can also connect to your home automation system and communicate to other devices that you are not around. WiFi locks also have the ability to detect whether the door is locked in real-time. However, because they are connected to the Internet, these locks are more at risk of online security breaches.
2. Remote monitoring
Remote monitoring enables you to receive real-time videos of what is happening in your home and is therefore a great way to keep an eye on your household, even if you're hundreds of kilometres away. Some of the great features in these monitoring systems include the ability to send fire or intrusion alerts, and streaming security camera feeds.
According to security specialist company, Yale, more homeowners are requesting remote access and control in this way. The security company introduced a range of home view cameras earlier this year that enable you to keep an eye on your home remotely, via a smartphone or tablet.
3. Smart garage systems
With a smart garage system you can control your garage door from wherever you are by using the app on your iOS or Android device, controlling who can get in and out of the garage when you're not at home. A smart garage system also alerts you if your garage door has been left open and for how long it has been left open.
4. Home sensors
Home sensors which you can also easily control from your smartphone or tablet can be installed on doors and windows and can determine your identity through the use of motion detection, winks, and waves. In addition, home sensor kits are able to determine movement in hallways and rooms. Home sensors alert you immediately when anyone attempts to break into your home by sending motion triggers to your smart device. Some home sensors have indoor sirens that provide visual and audio warnings when there is a triggering event.
5. Complete home automation systems
Today there are also complete home automation systems that make it possible for you to control security cameras, locks and lights all from your smart device even if you're not at home.
Sha highlighted that the increasing popularity of devices like these is driven by a number of things, including the fact that Africa has become more connected. When viewing property for sale you may come across the term, "smart home", which is a term used to define a home equipped with various electronic and internet-connected devices that can be controlled remotely by a smart device or computer.
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