Thinking Wired Security Systems?
STOP and Read This Instead!
Having a security system is a staple for homeowners, protecting valuables, deterring crime, and letting you keep tabs on your kids and/or pets. Modern security systems also notify owners about fires or gas problems.
If you’re reading this, you might be on the hunt for wired security systems for your home… or on the fence about it.
Well, while wired systems do have a few pros, they are not as convenient as wireless systems. A great example of this is the Vivint security system.
Vivint offers a comprehensive and highly intuitive security system and smart home integration. Let’s see what products and services the security company offers and their performance against a hardwired security system.
What Is a Wired Security System?
A security system for your home monitors activity in and around it and provides protection against intruders by alerting you. A hardwired system involves wires being set up throughout the house to transmit security info to the central control panel.
With wireless systems like Vivint on the rise, hardwired systems are less common to see these days. Wired systems do have a few benefits, but these are on a fast track to becoming outdated. The hassle of dealing with them is not worth it in this day and age. Don’t believe us? Read on.
Why You Shouldn't Get a Wired Home Security System
Before we let you in on the many privileges and benefits of using a wireless home security system in place of a wired one, here’s a rundown of the setbacks you will run into if you opt for a wired system:
- Permanent Fixture
A wired security system is a very permanent fixture in your home.
Not that it’s impossible to uninstall a wired security system, but this is not recommended: old security systems typically can’t be resold, and neither is an existing system suitable to install in a new home.
This makes hardwired security systems unportable, in contrast to wireless alternatives. - Limited Control
In today’s world of hyperconnectivity, the lack of remote control of wired security systems is probably their biggest disadvantage.
Unlike wireless security systems, which can be monitored and controlled remotely (typically with the help of an app), wired security setups can only be controlled from one room.
As you can imagine, this can be quite frustrating and, not to mention, time-consuming as well. - Clumsy Installation
Almost all wired systems require professional installation, which is expensive to do. It’s likely to take much longer and cause you quite a bit of frustration if you attempt to install it yourself.
This is because wired setups frequently require drilling holes in the walls of a home and connecting sensors and wires within the walls. Not to mention, the wiring is typically required to be run to many different locations throughout the property. - Less User-Friendly
The software and apps utilized by hardwired system companies tend not to be as advanced as those integrated with wireless systems, such as Google Nest, which is supported fully by Vivint.
Moreover, unlike wireless cameras, wired security cameras don’t work with virtual assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. And, as we mentioned before, it’s likely you’ll have to set up a computer monitor to view your footage and deal with limited DVR capacity.
Wireless Security System: Pros and Cons
So, now you know why we think you shouldn’t go for a wired security system. It’s pretty straightforward, really.
But what makes wireless systems so much better than hardwired ones? Here’s a list of the advantages associated with a wireless system in place of a wired one:
Pros of Wireless Security Systems
- Easy to Install
The relative ease of installation associated with wireless systems is hard to deny. The process to install is much less convoluted and quicker as a result.
No complicated wiring and drilling are usually required, and there will be little to no permanent fixtures in your home as a result of installing a wireless system. - Easy Removal and Modification
The portability of wireless security is one of its greatest strengths. Your home security setup can move with you if you move, which you don’t get with a wired setup. If you ever wish to upgrade or modify your existing hardwired system, that’s much easier to do than with a hardwired security system. - Remote Access
For many fans of wireless home security systems, the most prominent benefit is that of remote controlled access. With a wireless setup, you can arm or disarm the system even if you’re not physically present in your home – you don’t have to worry about a physical control panel.
This is usually done through a remote key fob, but all wireless systems these days come with a mobile app. Vivint, for example, is known to have a companion security app that is considered best-in-class. - Smartphone Notifications
Another outstanding advantage of using a wireless home security system over a hardwired one is the ability to get notifications from connected devices straight to your smartphone.
This happens in the event of both serious incidents, like security breaches, and everyday occurrences like your kids coming home from school or your pet(s) leaving your property. Depending on the system you choose, you’ll also get notifications for your smoke alarm going off or a water or gas leakage. - Programmable Smart Features
Many security companies, like Vivint, offer high-quality smart home products like video doorbells, smart thermostats, and smart locks.
Such systems can give you the experience of a fully smart home, allowing you to program features like turning on the lights at a specified time, programming your Spotify to play music, and controlling the thermostat, among many others.
Beyond improving the quality of your everyday life, this also allows for improved electricity management. Imagine leaving a dangerous appliance, such as a straightener, on when you leave home.
With an app for controlling smart products as the one Vivint provides, you can take care of that even when you’re not at home. Now that’s something a wired system can never provide!
Cons of Wireless Systems
None of the above is meant to say that wireless systems are completely faultless. There are some cons which you should be aware of:
- Risk of Hacking
Unlike wired systems, wireless home security systems are prone to be hacked and infiltrated by tech-savvy burglars who know how to jam the signals. Thankfully, advanced wireless home security systems like Vivint make use of 1024 bit encryption to hide IP addresses. - Limited Range Length
The majority of wireless security systems are better suited to small – to medium-sized homes. This is because, with wireless systems, the distance at which sensors work is usually limited.
However, if you choose modern products like Vivint’s Doorbell Camera Pro — which boasts the largest professional monitoring range of any doorbell camera — you’ll understand why a hardwired system was never an option! - Possible Interference
The biggest drawback of wireless home security setups is that they’re susceptible to interference. Sensors communicate via radio frequency, which may be interrupted by radio signals etc.
There is also the chance that poor internet connectivity will sever your connection with the security system. And of course, if you don’t have a stable internet connection, you should not consider a wireless system.
The Better Alternative to Hardwired Systems: Why Choose Vivint?
If you’re beginning to consider wireless home security systems in place of a hardwired system, there is perhaps a no better choice than the Vivint security system.
Highly customizable and endlessly user-friendly, Vivint home security lets you take the reins and decide exactly how you want your home’s security setup to be. It provides 24/7 professional monitoring customized by you.
The price point at which Vivint is available is comparatively high, but it’s one of the security systems most worth investing in.
The wide gamut of the most advanced security and monitoring technology provided by Vivint, together with the highly rated app, makes it a prime choice for homeowners. Not to mention, the high-end home integration is to die for.
After all, Vivint was named the TMA Monitoring Center of the Year for 2021 for a reason!
Services and Equipment Offered by Vivint
You’ll be interested in exactly what the Vivint monitoring service provides right off the bat.
The primary unit you pay for upfront is a bundle of devices. You’ll find items such as touchscreen Vivint Smart Hub, a motion detector, a flood sensor, and two door/window sensors included in the package.
The #1 reason why we love Vivint is the operating system and the Vivint app. This kit allows for a highly flexible and tailored experience, allowing you to set a schedule. With it, you’ll be discovering the many wonders of an integrated smart home.
Beyond the starter kit, you can also check out the following tech equipment lineup from Vivint to see whether they have something for your particular home needs:
Cameras
- Doorbell Camera Pro
- Outdoor Camera Pro
- Vivint Car Guard
- Indoor camera
Locks and Keys
- Key fob
- Smart door lock
- Smart lock
Sensors
- Motion detectors
- Door/window sensor
- Tilt sensor
- Glass break detector
- Recessed door sensor
- Medical alert pendant
- Carbon monoxide detector
- Smart Drive
- Smoke detector
- Freeze sensor
- Flood sensor
Smart Home Integration
- A smart home appliance control module
- Vivint Smart Panel (control panel/smart hub)
- Garage door controller
- Smart bulb
- Smart plug
- Element Thermostat
- Nest L Thermostat
- Nest E Thermostat
And more!
As you can see, there is no end to all you can achieve with a Vivint home security system and its advanced equipment. And the best part? It’s all controlled remotely!
Keep scrolling to get more in-depth details about what Vivint can do for you and why its strong suit is reliability.
Overview: Vivint Home Security Technologies
The 24/7 professional monitoring system provided by Vivint is what has made them famous. If you want a home security system that lets you do more than just self-monitoring, Vivint is the best product you can find.
Here’s a closer look at the components and features of the Vivint system seen as most useful and popular by most people:
- Sensors
Sensors are the driving core components of any security system, and in the case of Vivint, they are singularly impressive.
Of course, the primary function of a wireless sensor is to keep you safe from intruders, but in the case of Vivint, this also extends to break-ins, fires, leaks, and even unexpected hazards like a broken plate or wayward pets! - Cameras
The Vivint security cameras are top of the line.
Of these, the Doorbell Camera is Vivint’s most popular offering, equipped as it is with a 180-degree field of view and 1:1 aspect ratio, affording you a full view of who or what’s standing in front of your camera. In most cases, these security cameras will prove to be most helpful.
Beyond just showing you what’s going on, Vivint’s outdoor security cameras also come with an automatic deterrent, a 4K HDR sensor, and edge analytics for swift and dependable notifications and AI. Not to mention, the installation of Vivint systems is completely professional and, in the majority of cases, fool-proof.
In terms of indoor security cameras, you also get a 1080p resolution, 155-degree field of view, and a call button in case someone in your household wants to communicate with you when you’re out.
There’s also the highly useful Smart Deter feature that works in conjunction with Vivint’s security cameras. Smart Deter is a whistle activated by motion. The Smart Deter feature serves the purpose of notifying strangers on your porch that they are being monitored. - Cloud Storage
With Vivint, you’ll have access to 14-day cloud storage of video clips of a duration of 10 to 90 seconds. You also have the choice to upgrade to the 1-terabyte Vivint Smart Drive, which stores 30 days of 24/7 footage. - The Vivint Mobile App
The Vivint Smart Home app is one of the highest-rated security apps out there, letting you keep tabs on your home 24/7 from wherever you are.
With the easy-to-use Vivint mobile app, you’ll be able to access your home’s security cameras’ live video feeds right from your smartphone. The Vivint alarm system can also be armed and disarmed with superior ease.
One of the reasons why Vivint’s app stands out is no doubt because of the dedicated team that handles the maintenance and upkeep of the app. - Smart Locks
Vivint’s Smart integrated locks let you control access to your home no matter where you are and lets you grant entry to people in your absence without the use of keys. So, let’s say you’re at work when the kids come home from school; with Vivint, you can let them in from work! - Smart Thermostat
The smart thermostat is another Vivint home security company offering that has made them so reliable to their customer base. Named the Element Thermostat, this device helps save money every month by learning your habits and acting accordingly.
So, if you tend to turn the heating on every day at roughly the same time when you come home, don’t be surprised if it’s already on when you arrive! - Smart Smoke Alarm
Equipped with a built-in transmitter, Vivint’s Smart Smoke alarm, when triggered, connects you instantly to the Vivint Monitoring Center. Not only that, but Vivint has also outfitted their smart smoke alarm with the capacity to turn off airflow in order to prevent the growth of flames in the event of a fire. - Garage Door Controller
Did you drive away from your home without closing the garage door? Vivint will let you know. There is no need to go back home to close it; just let Vivint handle that. All you need to do is send the command using your smartphone remote control panel!
Vivint Security Systems: Pricing and Where to Buy
Are you thinking of getting Vivint for your home? You’ll be interested in knowing the price, then.
The Vivint Starter Kit, which we discussed above, clocks in at $599 – it includes the Vivint Smart Hub, one motion sensor, one leak sensor, and two door and window sensors. For every additional sensor, it’s $100 extra. Additional devices come in prices ranging from $50 to $399.
Meanwhile, professional installation of the Vivint system will set you back from $99 to $199. DIY installation of the Vivint service is not recommended for a customer.
If that sounds expensive, you’re not wrong. One of the disadvantages of Vivint is its pricing scheme.
But all hope is not lost! Vivint gives you the option of using Flex Pay, which lets you divide the initial cost of Vivint monitoring and security equipment into manageable monthly payments. The best part is that you will be charged no interest for using this service.
Vivint does not sell its products online. For a free customized quote, you can call Vivint directly at 855-848-4681. They also happen to be known for their amazing customer service and will help you figure out the best plan for your home and your needs.
Final Words
The world is moving forward, and so should you. Using wired security systems might seem like a smart choice now, but they’re fast becoming outdated. Simply put, a wired system won’t serve you as well as a wireless system will.
Now, although Vivint is undeniably expensive, we think it’s pretty obvious why that is. When it comes to the safety of your family, your pets, and your belongings, you should never compromise. Money comes and goes, but you have only one life.
Not interested in Vivint? No worries – there are so many more brands out there. We hope we’ve managed to dissuade you from settling for a wired home security system!
