I’m looking to really step up my home security and dig into some ideas that go beyond the basics. There’s so much information out there – from YouTube videos to detailed blog guides, posts on this forum, and even niche podcasts.
What’s the single best tip or resource you’ve come across that really made you think, “Wow, I hadn’t considered that”? Maybe it was a clever trick, a lesser-known vulnerability, or just a unique approach to security that stuck with you.
If you’ve got any personal favorite content or advice that goes beyond the usual, please share it here.
Honestly, not much. Things have changed, and it feels like the internet is overloaded with ads and biased reviews. In my 30 years in the alarm and camera business, I’ve learned to rely on my own experience over advice I find online. I’ve tested over 30 different alarm panels myself, and I don’t recommend anything unless I’ve seen it work firsthand.
Qolsys 4 is my top pick, paired with a local alarm company using alarm.com. You won’t get everything free like with the big names, but you have more control over your system.
SophyGenesis said: @Brian
Qolsys is solid, but if you’re going wireless, I’d use DSC Neo sensors. Qolsys panels are good, but their sensors aren’t as reliable.
They work fine for a standard-sized house, like around 2000 square feet.
@Brian
That’s true for smaller setups, but we had too many issues with them. They would randomly trip or lose connection, so we switched to Neo/PowerG for better reliability. For one DIY home setup, they’re okay, but for multiple installs, they’re not the best.
I know someone with a long driveway who has an alarm that goes off when something heavy crosses the gate. It’s pretty cool meeting people halfway up the driveway before they even get to the door.
Putting in a new, bright motion-activated floodlight makes a huge difference. The older ones just don’t cut it. Use super bright ones, and you’ll keep unwanted visitors away.
I’m often away for work, and the biggest help has been ‘set it and forget it’ lighting. Having the front of the house lit up always makes it seem like someone’s home. I use solar lights along the path from the driveway to the porch, dusk-to-dawn bulbs outside the garage, and super bright motion-sensing lights by the porch. I just leave the switches on, so I don’t have to worry about the house being dark when I’m away. It actually scared off some Halloween trick-or-treaters when the lights suddenly turned on.