2017-03-09

Home security is becoming more and more important as the world around us gets crazier and crazier. Some think it’s absolutely essential these days, and many homeowners have already installed home security systems to guard their families and possessions. For those who haven’t we have collected information about the top home security systems that are connected to your smart phone, tablet or PC via the Internet of Things (IoT). Have a look and see which interest you the most.When you’re ready to discuss installing a home security system to keep you and your family and possessions safe, give us a call and we’ll explain exactly how it works.



ADT’s Pulse

The home security giant’s flagship service is called ADT Pulse, which offers home automation controls through its smartphone apps.

Chief among these is the ADT Pulse Voice app, which can control lights, thermostats, door locks and other appliances by using voice commands.

There’s also the Canopy app that lets you share the locations and whereabouts of loved ones on the go, and motion sensors that provide real-time information on the security in the home.

The company, founded in 1874, also partnered with McAfee earlier this year to offer users digital security for their data and devices, while a deal with Ford put ADT’s voice controls into vehicles equipped with Ford Sync Applink.

In May, ADT also invested $25m into San Francisco-based startup Life360 to develop co-branded mmobile security applications.

Comcast’s Xfinity

Home automation is a growing area for Comcast and the company has been offering security, energy management, remote lighting and thermostat control through its Xfinity Home package since 2012.

The company, which has more than three million Xfinity Wi-Fi hotspots in the US, continues to improve the service. Last year, it launched Xfinity Home Control, which allows users to remotely adjust smart appliances without the professional security monitoring that comes with other Xfinity Home services.

For a monthly fee, customers can get real-time notifications when doors and windows open or close, watch live streaming videos of their home via wireless cameras and manage home devices, including lights and thermostats, remotely or by using automated schedules.

However, the services were recently under fire after the company’s home security platform failed to detect intruders who broke into a couple’s home in Washington. When the security system failed, they broke into the basement and tortured their 18-year-old son.

Apple’s Homekit

In June, the iPhone maker introduced HomeKit, its smart home platform for integrating devices through iOS, which allows users to securely control appliances from their iPhone or iPad.

Although the system is still in its earliest days, the company is currently gathering an ecosystem of devices, including Philips’s remote-controlled Hue light bulbs, Belkin’s WeMo switch, and the iBaby monitor, to integrate with it.

Apple Insider this week reported that the latest beta software for Apple TV could become the HomeKit hub for smart devices, which allows users to control connected HomeKit devices while out of the house.

Samsung

Introduced at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2014, the system uses a single app that home owners can access to control Samsung-branded appliances using their smartphone, TV remote control, tablets or smartwatches.

For example, voice commands could be used to turn off lights or a television set, and in return they could send alerts to owners if they need servicing.

The system also connects to cameras in fridges, a vacuum cleaner and dishwashers among other devices, allowing users to keep an eye on their homes when they’re away. For example, users can automatically control the washing machine to have their clothes ready when they get home while controlling other devices.

Samsung has promised that all data that is transmitted by the app is encrypted for increased security. This ensures that the people can enjoy the service safe in the knowledge their data remains private, according to the firm.

Last month, the smartphone giant said it was planning to open up its smart home system to make it work with third-party technology after acquiring SmartThings, which provides an open smart home platform.

In July, the company also became part of Thread, a consortium of companies aiming to build a low-power mesh network as an alternative to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

Finish this article here: http://www.cbronline.com/news/security/top-8-home-security-systems-for-the-internet-of-things

Home security is a big part of the new Internet of Things (IoT). All new technology seems to be pointed in that direction. The ease of managing and monitoring everything from mobile devices, even remotely, is certainly useful and appealing. Let us know if you need more information about home security or the Internet of Things in general. We’re happy to help; that’s why we’re here!

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