Pros & Cons of Wired vs Wireless Alarm Monitoring

There are definite differences between wired and wireless alarm monitoring systems, but both can be a good option when it comes to your home security. Here we will discuss the pros and cons of each in order to help you decide which security option will best suit the unique needs of your home and family.

Pros and Cons of Wired Systems

A wired alarm system is able to handle many more sensors than a wireless alarm system, so you don't have to worry about a reduced number of sensors or areas left unprotected on your property. Because hard-wired alarm systems have been around for many years, they have a proven track record.

This has made many people loyal to wired systems, and they have continued to keep them in use regardless of the fact that wireless security has gained so much popularity. A wired system has to be installed by a technician, which can be considered a pro, or a con, depending on your point of view.

However, there are more companies that offer hard-wired alarms than those that offer wireless systems, so you'll have more variety to choose from. The monthly cost of monitoring a wired system is also often less, which can balance out the slightly higher cost of having this type of system installed. The intensiveness of installation is the largest downside to a hardwired alarm. Installers are intrusive - they come in and start drilling all over your home. Sometimes the installation process can take a while to finish, which could also raise the costs. A large number of wired systems are outdated and obsolete due to wireless technology. With that in mind, it's important to be careful about the kind of system you're going to purchase.

Make sure it isn't an old design and that it's not going to be a waste in the long run. Not all wired systems are a poor choice, however, but they aren't as popular as the technologically advanced, user-friendly, wireless systems. As technology continues to advance with the latest innovations, wired security systems don't work for every application, and it may yet fall behind as security becomes more high-tech.

Pros and Cons of Wireless Systems

With a wireless alarm system, the installation will be a much faster and smoother process. There also won't be any need for drilling into walls, because there aren't any wires being run. 

You'll also be looking at a lower installation cost simply because it doesn't take as long or require as much effort. The maintenance you do on the system will also be easier to perform. When you want to upgrade features and equipment at a later date, you can do so easily. Just switch them out for the updated versions, and there's never any risk of needing to run wires or cables to support the upgrade.

Wireless alarm systems aren't perfect, though, and they definitely have their downsides. This includes distance. If you have a very large home, or even a property that has multiple buildings you want to protect, you might find that your system cannot cover the whole area. Usually, a 500ft range in open air is as far as a wireless alarm system can remain working consistently.

There are also limitations on the number of sensors that can work simultaneously with a wireless alarm system. If your home or building needs 40 or more sensors, you might be better off considering a hybrid system or a hardwired alarm. By knowing your unique requirements it's important to establish what you really need and want from a new security system. Come to terms with along with the type of system will work best for you by understanding exactly what functions each provides. By knowing the system's limitations you'll make the right alarm system choice for you.

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