Last Updated on May 21, 2025
Are you thinking of upgrading the security at your home or business? While a security system is a popular and effective solution, choosing between a monitored and unmonitored system can make all the difference in how much protection you have. This is your guide to choosing a monitored or unmonitored system and the factors you must consider.
The Differences Between Monitored and Unmonitored Security Systems
Monitored and unmonitored security systems each deter crime and keep homes and businesses secure. Still, there are distinct differences between the two systems that can make one option better than the other for your situation.
Unmonitored Security Systems
Unmonitored systems feature security cameras, access control systems and intrusion alarms. The cameras and alarms help deter criminal activity, while the system records footage for later review. Some systems feature mobile connectivity, providing you with notifications or a live feed from your cameras so that you can contact the authorities. Unmonitored systems are usually a one-time purchase.
You Are in Control of Your Security Approach
Unmonitored home alarm systems put you in the driver’s seat. Only you are responsible for overseeing the property, entryways and belongings close to where your security devices are installed. This flexibility can be a perk of security systems without monitoring support.
Whether you are briefly leaving the home or office, or heading on vacation for days, you will need to self-monitor the security system. You will be responsible for calling the authorities should your unmonitored alarm system sound or send you an email or text alert.
It Must Always be Connected
With an unmonitored security setup, there is an ongoing need to have access to a mobile device with internet access. Most home and business security devices communicate with you via your phone’s cellular data or Wi-Fi connection. How fast you receive an alert from the system will depend on your coverage.
Any time your phone, tablet or laptop is out of reach, it could mean a security incident is going unnoticed.
Home and Business Security Systems With Reduced Costs
An unmonitored alarm system provides opportunities for financial savings. Since there is no one on the other end of a camera feed evaluating any incident triggering the system, you only pay for the cost of the devices and installation assistance. While this sounds advantageous, there is always a chance you will miss something detected, and this could translate to financial losses elsewhere — stolen items, broken windows or fire damage, to name a few examples.
Monitored Security Systems
While they share the same hardware as unmonitored security systems, monitored systems benefit from real-time remote monitoring by trained professionals. This service makes all the difference between hoping you’re prepared and knowing you’re covered in any situation.
Fast Response Times
You’ll have a room full of experts who can act fast in an emergency to contact local police or fire departments and ensure you’re in the loop. This is essential for mitigating security threats and immediately getting to the bottom of a situation.
With a monitored burglar alarm, there’s less time for an intruder to succeed with theft, vandalism and other criminal acts. You can also leave it to professionals to determine if a security threat or emergency notification is legitimate. You are only looped in during serious matters that call for your attention.
Possible Insurance Discounts
Upgrading your security system to include monitored protection can help unlock money-saving discounts through your insurance provider. Insurance companies appreciate the extra eyes on your property and assets. Safeguarding valuable items in your residential or commercial space reduces the likelihood of something happening to them and your insurance provider having to issue funds to you.
Hands-Off Security Approach
A monitored system takes the responsibility off your shoulders and places it in the hands of professionals equipped with advanced communications tools. The heightened level of security means homeowners and business owners can focus on enjoying time with family outside the house and better serving their customers at work.
24/7/365 Security Coverage
Using a monitored system will provide you with peace of mind. You’ll know that trained experts are looking out for your business or home 24 hours daily.
With an unmonitored security system, a security threat can leave you in a state of panic and unsure of how to act. Professionals monitoring your security services have experience identifying and responding to threats and emergencies.
Device Familiarity
Monitored security service providers often complete device installation services for a fair fee. Having the same team install technology and monitor your configuration makes it easy for experts to pinpoint details to the authorities.
Should an event take place, surveillance teams quickly identify the area in question and will help law enforcement or firefighters respond appropriately. Having additional insight into a break-in or fire location allows crews to head to the correct spot and control the situation immediately.
Improve Your Approach With Prestige Security Solutions
At Prestige Security Solutions, we install many types of security systems and provide monitoring services. Our team differentiates itself from other providers with higher standards for our products and work. Our experts will advise you on what equipment and services can give you the right level of protection. In most cases, we’ll recommend a monitored system thanks to the added security and confidence it provides.
We’re known for our end-to-end security solutions and attentive customer service. Prestige Security Solutions is a personable company that always puts the customer first.
Contact our team today to learn more about our security systems and our other available services.
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