Growing up, I can remember never having to lock our doors. Of course, I grew up in a small Norman-Rockwell-painting-of-a-town that didn’t seem to have crime, or have moved on since the 1950s. But, I still recall that we left our windows open at night, and left our toys on the lawn. However, today home security is indeed a real concern, and finding the right solution isn’t always easy, especially if you’re on a budget. But you’re in luck! As part of my ongoing Smart Home System Series, I’m going to give you the 411 (so you hopefully won’t ever need to call 911) on Smart Home Security Systems and IP Cameras.
Why Home Security?
You may live in a neighbourhood where nobody locks their doors, and there hasn’t been a serious crime in decades. That’s awesome, and I want your real estate agents name, however home security isn’t just about keeping bad guys out of your place.
I have kids at home, and they get home from school when I’m still at work. Some Smart Home IP cameras (like Netatmo’s) have facial recognition, so you can get an alert on your phone telling you when a member of your family walks through the door. Similarly, you’ll get a notification if a stranger wanders into your home. It’s the same with pets. Wouldn’t it be nice to be able to check in on Fido while you’re away from the house, and maybe even communicate with him? Some cameras also have a two-way communication option, so you can say “Good Boy” if the pooch is laying down and enjoying a chew toy, instead of your couch cushions. And what about fires? Wouldn’t you like to know if there’s smoke in your home because you left the burner on? Some cameras do offer a fire detection notification, so you can race home and shut that element off.
Indoor Cameras
The basics for any Smart Home Security System, for me anyway, is an indoor camera. There are models that you mount on the wall, and there are some that you sit on a table like an air freshener. But essentially these products allow you to sneak a peek at rooms in your home when you are at the office, on vacation, or away anywhere where there is an internet connection.
If you’re looking for a solid and versatile indoor camera, it’s hard to beat the Nest Cam WiFi Indoor IP Camera. It offers a 24/7 live stream, full HD 1080p resolution, and since it is wired, it never runs out of batteries. It also records footage, detects motion, and features night vision LED sensors, so there’s a clear view of its surroundings even at night. The camera also offers two-way “talk-and-listen” communication, so you can tell your kids to get out of the cookie jar before supper.
If you are on more of a budget, then maybe opt for the TP-LINK NC230 Wi-Fi Indoor 720p IP Camera. For the lower price it has a lower resolution at 720p, but it does offer night vision capabilities, motion and sound detection, as well as remote viewing.
Outdoor Cameras
It’s also a good idea to have a solid Smart Home outdoor camera in your security setup. You can monitor package deliveries, or that raccoon that’s been knocking over your garbage cans every night. The Nest Cam Wi-Fi Outdoor 1080p IP Camera is a good option, with 24/7 streaming, crystal-clear 1080p HD resolution, night vision, and two-way audio. It also works well with all your other Nest Smart Home products.
Similarly, the D-Link Wireless Outdoor 720p IP Camera offers peace of mind with 720p HD recording and monitoring, high-quality audio, plus motion detection. It’s also built to withstand the rigorous Canadian weather. The system also lets you manage and monitor up to 99 cameras on one account, so you can have an all-encompassing surveillance system.
Smart Home Security Systems
If you want to go all out, there are a ton of options for full Smart Home security systems. For instance, the NETGEAR Arlo Pro Wireless Security System with 4 HD Cameras gives you everything you need to set up a full indoor/outdoor camera network that you can view from your smartphone or tablet, anywhere in the world. The four-camera kit has full 1080p HD resolution, night vision, two-way audio, plus the system is pretty weather-proof, and it lets you use a 100+ decibel siren remotely to scare off intruders.
You can also keep track of your windows and doors with the SkylinkNet Security Solutions Home Alarm System. The smartphone-controlled system lets you place sensors at your windows and doors, so you get notifications when they open or close. The kit includes an internal hub, two window/door sensors, plus accessories.
And that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Smart Home Security Systems and IP Cameras. As one of the more fleshed-out product ranges in the Smart Home System market, IP cameras and home security systems are wide-ranging and varied. You’re sure to find a camera or full Smart Home security system that meets your needs and budget. And best of all, you can find many Smart Home security products that already work and communicate with your other compatible devices.
In previous instalments of this ongoing Smart Home System Series, I went over some of those main Smart Home protocols that link various accessories, devices and appliances together, such as Apple HomeKit, Z-Wave, Nest and the Netatmo range of products. I also took a look at the Philips Hue Smart Lighting System, and Smart Home Air Quality Monitors. Are you currently using any of these systems in your home? Do you think you’d like to add an IP camera or Smart Home security system to your connected set-up? Let me know what you use, or would use, in the comments section below.
Currently using zwave. Have the Honeywell 7000 panel and home security kit and will be adding lighting controls, GDO and cameras. Just wish the cameras came in better shape and sizes.
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