Traditional Alarm System vs. Smart Home Alarm System: What’s the Difference?

May 10, 2023 by Anas Mustafa

Looking for the best alarm system for your home can be overwhelming. Customers are often inundated with information on the best system for protecting their homes.

While it was once thought that having any alarm system was better than none, we know now that the wrong alarm system doesn’t do much better than none at all. As technology advances, potential home intruders are taking advantage of these tools to get around traditional methods of home security.

That’s why it’s more essential than ever for homeowners to understand their options for a home alarm system and which one will provide the best protection for them and their families.

When it comes to home security, alarms come in two forms: traditional and smart home alarm systems. If you want to discover the best home alarm system in Canada, we will discuss the differences between each type of system, thus allowing you to make an informed decision.

What is a traditional alarm system?

When discussing a traditional alarm system, there are many definitions that may apply. These definitions range from the older systems of CCTV/videotaping to the most recent panel usage. While CCTV accompanied by a DVR is still used today, we will compare the more widely used models.

Traditional alarm systems are generally electrically wired. They connect to a panel located in a main entryway, enabling them to turn on and off. While many feel they are an outdated method, many traditional alarm systems are still being used today.

What is a smart alarm system?

Smart home alarm systems can be either wired or wireless, depending on your needs and preferences. They are easy to configure and can be set up and ready to go quickly and efficiently.

Smart alarms are easily customizable and offer a range of control and monitoring options that allow you to ensure your home, belongings and loved ones are safe and secure no matter where you are.

How does a traditional alarm system differ from a smart alarm?

While traditional alarms have been around for decades longer than smart alarm systems, smart alarm technology has advanced rapidly in a short span of time. While both types of systems are designed with the same goal, there are a number of crucial differences in the way they function.

Functions of a traditional home alarm system include:

Audible Alarm: One of the most prominent features of a traditional burglar alarm system is the alarm noise, which is intended to alert potential intruders to the presence of an alarm and deter them.
24/7 monitoring: With traditional alarm systems, each time a sensor is triggered, it sends an alarm to the monitoring station. Once the monitoring station receives the alarm, they will immediately get in touch with you to ensure everything is alright.
Landline connection: Traditional alarm systems require a connection through your phone line. While this provides a degree of security, it can also mean your phone line is tied up in an emergency. With home invasions, there is also the risk of this line being cut and made unresponsive.

Smart home security systems include:

Wireless installation: Most systems are wireless. Homeowners can install these systems by themselves, removing installation fees. Those that are wired will need the assistance of a professional. A wireless system can be installed in just a couple of hours while a wired installation can take a full day or more.
Owner-based monitoring: With most systems, homeowners can monitor their own houses from a smartphone app and still have professional monitoring at the same time in case of an emergency that requires the dispatch of emergency services.
Customized options: Homeowners can establish reminders suited to their needs. It can send reminders to lock a door, close a garage door or to turn off lights. It also allows you to control smart home devices using one device.
Your alarm system can be as involved or hands-off as you’d like, depending on your personal preferences.
Real-time monitoring: Homeowners can manage their own homes using real-time information. You can view your entire property whenever you want, no matter what your current location is.
You can choose to self-monitor your home or choose to receive 24/7 monitoring from an alarm center.
Dedicated cellular connection: Unlike traditional systems, most professionally installed smart home alarm systems use a dedicated cellular line, separate from your regular home phone. A dedicated cellular line ensures your phone lines won’t be tied up in an emergency situation and cannot be cut or tampered with by intruders.

While this list offers a brief glimpse at the features of a smart home alarm system, it is by no means exhaustive. For more information on everything a smart home security system can offer, please visit our website.

Where to Go for the Best Home Alarm System in Canada

If you are looking for the best home alarm system in Canada, consider Canadian Security Professionals. While traditional alarm systems could once be trusted to get the job done, with today’s advanced technology, homeowners can no longer afford to be one step behind potential intruders.

CSP offers top-rated smart home security solutions that allow homeowners to employ a new level of vigilance in their home security. Our security systems offer customizable options and add-ons, so you can ensure your property is protected from all potential threats.

We provide our customers peace of mind no matter where they are, knowing that their home is secure. With the most reliable and sophisticated technology, you will receive 24/7 monitoring by our ULC-listed monitoring centres.

You can call us now for a free quote at 1-877-494-9911, or visit our website here.

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