DIY Home Security Camera Systems

Today, manufacturers sell security systems and DIY kits that include sensors, base stations and keypads. And since you can install these yourself, you’re able shop around to find the option that works best for you.

In addition, you can upgrade these DIY home security systems with cameras to create the perfect level of security for your home and property.

Not just Video Doorbells: Camera systems for your Home Security

While video doorbells have become increasingly popular over the past few years, they aren’t always enough for complete home protection. The good news is that DIY home security system manufacturers also have a wide range of compatible cameras for most use cases.

Indoor cameras can be placed in any rooms that need protection, while outdoor cameras that are weatherproof can be mounted on external walls and roofs to provide you with a real-time view of what’s going on in and around your house.

With outdoor cameras, you do have to choose whether you want to go with wired cameras or a wireless option. Wired systems ultimately require less maintenance, since the wireless ones typically require batteries that need replacing. However, the trade-off is in installation. Routing wires may not be convenient or even possible in many locations, so wireless cameras can be crucial depending on your individual circumstances.

Easy DIY Home Alarm and Camera Systems

Having a full home alarm and camera system installed used to be the domain of security companies and could cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars for a complete installation.

With the advent of DIY kits, though, the barrier to entry has become significantly reduced. Manufacturers such as Ring have their own branded camera products that are also compatible with a wide range of third-party products.

For total ease of installation, it’s typically best to buy all the components you need from a single source. But if you’re handy with technology and not worried about doing some research, it’s possible to craft the perfect system for your own use with compatible products.

Deciding on the Best Video Home Security System

The first step should be to sketch out a simple drawing of your property, indoors and out. Then, consider where you want to have visibility and whether those locations would need to be wired or can work wirelessly.

Wireless cameras can be placed in pretty much any location where they can receive a Wi-Fi signal, and you can upgrade your home network with range extenders for the easiest possible installation. However, wired cameras can be more reliable than depending on your local wireless network. If you can route cables through your property, you’re not restricted by network coverage.

Once you have a decent idea of what components you need and where to place them, the next task is to figure out which products to go for.

Typically, the most cost-effective way to go is to buy a kit that contains as many of the devices you need in one set. Then, you can add the rest as standalone units. Buying the bulk of the items as a kit can also make installation easier, as all the items are guaranteed to work together, seamlessly reducing your total time investment in the installation process.

Deciding if you Need a Contract or Off-Site Video Storage

In its simplest form, all of these systems work by giving you a livestream video of their view that you can access through apps on your phone, laptop or other home systems and Alexa-enabled devices.

While you can record the video locally on many of these systems, it may be worth investing in a contract with a provider such as Ring, in which they will keep a private store of all the footage for up to 60 days. This can be significantly better than relying on local-only storage. For instance, in the event of fire or flooding, having an off-site backup of the feeds can be critical.

These services are typically bundled with remote home monitoring as well, so you can benefit from the peace of mind that trained operatives are available 24 hours a day to alert the local authorities in case of an event.

While this does add a nominal monthly or yearly cost to the entire package, it’s both important for total security and is advised if you spend any significant amount of time away from your property.

Please note: Ring is a Patch Brand Partner.