The world of home security has changed over the years. There are now many different options when it comes to deciding on what type of system you want to install in your home. One such option is whether or not you want a wired security system, or if wireless would be better for your needs. This article will break down the difference between these two types; their advantages and disadvantages; as well as how much they cost and who might be best suited for each one.
Wireless security system:
Wireless security systems, as the name suggests, do not require any wires to be installed. They are connected to a home’s router and use radio waves or infrared rays instead of hard-wired cables. This system is often better for homes that have been upgraded with wiring in recent years because it does not need any additional wiring work done on the property – just an internet connection. These wireless networks can also cover large distances (think miles) so they’re great for rural properties too where running cable might prove difficult and expensive.
Wireless networks have some advantages that their counterparts don’t: they’re more affordable (especially if you already have an internet connection), there’s no need to worry about any limitations on where cameras can be placed because you’ll always get a signal from most parts of your property, installing them could take as little as 15 minutes so installation time is much shorter.
There are disadvantages to wireless systems as well: they’re more vulnerable, so if an intruder can get close enough to a device without setting off the alarm system then it’s possible for them to disable your alarms. The range of coverage is also less than wired networks because power outages will disrupt communication and sometimes there could be interference from nearby devices like cordless phones or microwaves that cause problems with signal quality.
The other thing about installing these security systems is that you’ll need internet access at all times in order to connect everything together which might not always be feasible depending on where your home is located.
Wired security system:
A wired security system is an alarm system that operates with wires. The sensor and the trigger use a physical connection to communicate, such as a wire or cable. Wired security systems have a reputation for being more reliable.
The advantage of a wired alarm system is that it has a longer range than wireless because there is no interference from other nearby devices such as cordless phones or microwaves, which can cause problems with signal quality. Wired security systems don’t require continuous internet access and the installation cost is lower.
Here are some differences between the two types of security systems:
1. A wired security system is connected by wires from sensors to an alarm panel that’s installed at the house’s perimeter, which then sends signals back to a monitoring station.- Whereas with a wireless security system, sensors can transmit their signal wirelessly up to 300 feet.
2. A wired security system is more reliable than wireless because it has a longer range and requires no continuous internet access. Whereas with a wireless security system, you will need to have an uninterrupted connection to the monitoring station in order for your alarm system to work properly. The installation cost of wired systems are lower also.
3. Wireless systems are more convenient because you won’t need to deal with messy wires running through your house. It’s also relatively easy and quick to install a wireless system. The monthly monitoring cost for a wired security system is higher than that of a wifi or cellular alarm service plan.
4. A wired security system is cheaper to install, but a wireless one requires less maintenance and offers more versatility in the placement of sensors.- On the other hand, wirelessly installed devices may have limited range due to obstructions such as walls, trees, or hills; whereas with a wired solution this isn’t an issue because you can run wires where you need them.
5. Wireless systems are more vulnerable to hacking and breaches as the signals used for monitoring can be intercepted or interrupted. Wires, on the other hand, cannot be interfered with by hackers.
6. Wireless systems are more prone to power outages and can be easily disabled by a simple battery drain from sensors or devices. Electrical interference, such as lightning storms may also impact the system. Wired security systems have no need for batteries because they draw their power through an electric connection at all times. They’re always on when you need them.
7. Wired systems are typically more reliable and offer better customer service than their wireless counterparts. Wired security companies often have a 24 hour monitoring station with trained staff that can dispatch services in the event of an emergency or system malfunction. Wireless networks, on the other hand, need to be monitored by your own alarm company which may
8. Wireless security systems are also more difficult to disable, because the sensors can’t be cut without disabling the entire system; whereas with a wired solution all it takes is cutting one wire and everything shuts down.
9. Wireless security systems are more difficult to monitor, because with a wired system all the information is stored onsite and you can control your device from any internet connection; whereas a wireless solution requires an additional Internet of Things (IoT) hub that needs to be monitored in addition.
The wired vs wireless security system debate is a longstanding one. Both have their respective advantages and disadvantages and it’s really up to you which solution best suits your needs. However, there is no perfect answer that will satisfy everyone because what works well for someone may not work so well for another person due to different circumstances such as budget constraints, location of property etc., but generally speaking both types of alarm systems (wired vs wireless) offer benefits. Each has its own pros and cons.
