Identifying a real security system from a toy is not as easy as the above images would lead you to believe so before diving into the world of smart security, there are some critical truths you need to be aware of.
Too many people fall into the trap of buying flashy gadgets with bright lights, fancy displays, and lots of bells and whistles—only to realise too late that although these systems may look impressive but lack real security. As a professional security provider with 40 years of experience, we’ve tested too many of these products and found that they fail in two essential areas: security and reliability.
Security = A system or equipment designed to resist attack or restrict unauthorised access. Many of the smart home security products we’ve evaluated over the years may look impressive on the surface but lack the fundamental security requirements such as physical protection, supervision, redundancy, encryption and tamper protection leaving them open to failure or attack without any special tools or equipment. The so-called Smart Security System installations we’ve examined often lack professional design or installation which also leaves them susceptible to failure and open to attack. than can also and lack practical functionality. Customers often invest heavily in these systems, only to find they don’t work as expected, leading to additional costs for repairs or we completely replace one of these so called smart systems on a weekly basis.
Reliability = A security system should function consistently and dependably—24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Yet, the latest technology isn’t always the best. Newer products often lack the real-world testing required to prove their long-term reliability. At MSE, we only use commercial-grade security equipment that has been rigorously tested and proven to perform reliably over time. Each component is carefully selected to meet specific security needs, ensuring dependable operation in any environment. That means our customers can have peace of mind, knowing their security system will work when they need it most.
How to select a Smart Security System for your Home or Business
Smart Home and Business security systems have been around for many years, and there are many equipment and service options available, so it’s critically important to identify what you really need. A major aspect of any smart system is its ability to integrate with a mobile app, allowing the convenience to:
- Check system status armed/disarmed etc
- Arm/disarm your alarm remotely
- View and playback CCTV footage
- Unlock doors from anywhere
- Answer video intercom remotely
- Control sprinklers and other smart features
NOTE: However, just because something is possible doesn’t mean it’s beneficial!
We have seen first hand many people that have spend a fortune on equipment and features they never use, only to find themselves frustrated with the operation or cost of operating and maintaining the system in the long term. When selecting your security system, focus on practical features that will genuinely benefit you—if you don’t see yourself using it daily or weekly, you probably never will.
Quality is the Key!
The first and most important item is the quality of advice you receive from your provider. The information and advice you receive at this stage should provide enough information to make an informed and confident decision about what features you require with your system. All our sales are carried out by trained technical staff with years of practical experience in designing, installing and servicing electronic security equipment. Be sure to ask questions and expect your trained consultant to provide clear concise answers and put them in writing.
Next is having a wide range of quality equipment options to choose from, not just a one-size-fits-all application, because that is the limit of the salesperson’s knowledge or the products they sell. MSE have a huge range of commercial quality products and services that have been proven to be reliable and effective over many years.
Smart Cameras: More Than Just Surveillance
Old CCTV cameras recorded video for later viewing, but smart cameras can accomplish a great deal more. Smart cameras and advanced CCTV systems come equipped with the latest tech and AI-powered motion detection, human detection, line crossing, night vision and two-way talk, making them proactive rather than reactive. Some devices even differentiate between vehicles, people, and animals, which lowers false alarms while still detecting actual threats.
Access Control: Who Enters and When?
For businesses, managing access to your premises is critical, and with the use of smart access control systems, you can effortlessly manage entry permissions, monitor staff access via user Codes, Fobs, Biometric or Mobile App 24/7. No more missing keys or unauthorised access to stress about, as everything can be managed remotely, securely and in real-time via remote software or Mobile applications.
Intruder Alarms That Do More
Modern intruder alarms don’t just make noise and flash lights – they communicate. Smart alarms can ensure prompt response by sending instant notifications direct to your phone and/or a professional remote monitoring service which can dispatch Security Patrols, Police, Fire Brigade, Ambulance. Smart security systems can incorporate CCTV Cameras providing video images for alarm verification taking further action.
Integrated Security for Maximum Protection
The real game-changer is how these devices can be integrated to provide a security solution tailored to your needs. Imagine your security system detecting unauthorised activity in a designated area that results in a combination of actions including an alarm and video images being transmitted simultaneously to your mobile phones and the Alarm Monitoring Centre – all within seconds. Smart systems integrate alarms, cameras, lighting, door locks and access control into a seamless network, creating a multi layered defence against threats.
Why Smart Security Matters More Than Ever
Crime is always evolving, and so should our security measures. From protecting your home from intruders to safeguarding confidential company assets, smart integrated security systems provide peace of mind that no traditional installation can. So, why wait? Invest in the right system for better protection, better efficiency and control at your fingertips.
Don’t Settle for Less When It Comes to Security – Call MSE Alarms For A Chat!
MSE Alarms has been operating since 1989 and our highly experienced team has spent over three decades setting the benchmark for security in South Australia. We are a family-owned business with a reputation for the highest professional standards for a wide range of equipment and services. Choosing the right security system is about reliability, quality, long-term protection and your peace of mind. Browse through our list of clients across residential, commercial, and corporate spaces. Talk to our expert team today if you want a smart security solution designed for your needs.
