A smart home security system provides peace of mind through connected cameras, locks, and sensors you can monitor from anywhere. This guide walks you through planning, purchasing, and setting up a comprehensive security system—whether you're starting from scratch or upgrading existing equipment.
In This Guide
Step 1: Planning Your Security System
Before purchasing any equipment, assess your home's security needs. Walk through your property and identify entry points, vulnerable areas, and what you want to monitor.
Key Questions to Answer
- Entry points: How many doors and windows need sensors?
- Camera coverage: Which areas need video monitoring (front door, driveway, backyard)?
- Indoor monitoring: Do you want to monitor inside your home when away?
- Integration: What smart home platform do you use (Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit)?
- Monitoring preference: Professional monitoring with emergency dispatch, or self-monitoring via smartphone?
Start with the essentials: a video doorbell, one outdoor camera, and smart locks for entry doors. You can expand your system over time as budget allows. A solid starter setup costs $300-500.
Step 2: Setting Up Security Cameras
Cameras are the cornerstone of any smart security system. Modern options include battery-powered wireless cameras and wired models with continuous recording.
Recommended Camera Placements
- Front door: A video doorbell covers most front entry activity
- Back door: Second most common entry point for intruders
- Driveway/garage: Monitor vehicles and detect approaching visitors
- First-floor windows: Especially those hidden from street view
- Indoor common areas: Optional, for monitoring when away or for pet/child supervision
Installation Tips
Height matters: Mount cameras 7-10 feet high—too low and they're easily tampered with; too high and faces become unidentifiable.
Avoid backlighting: Don't point cameras directly at bright light sources like the setting sun, which creates silhouettes instead of clear footage.
Consider WiFi range: Test your WiFi signal strength at each camera location. If weak, add a WiFi extender before installing.
Our Camera Recommendations
For outdoor security, we recommend the Arlo Pro 5S for its excellent wireless performance and color night vision. For budget-conscious setups, the Wyze Cam v3 Pro offers remarkable value. See our full security camera comparison for more options.
Step 3: Installing Smart Locks
Smart locks eliminate the need for physical keys and let you control access remotely. Most replace your existing deadbolt and install in 15-30 minutes with basic tools.
Smart Lock Installation Steps
- Remove existing deadbolt: Unscrew the interior assembly, then the exterior faceplate and bolt mechanism.
- Install the new bolt: Insert the smart lock's bolt mechanism, ensuring proper orientation.
- Mount the exterior assembly: Attach the keypad or exterior unit, threading cables through the door.
- Install interior assembly: Connect cables, mount the interior unit, and secure with screws.
- Test the mechanism: Manually test the lock before connecting to WiFi.
- Connect to your app: Follow the manufacturer's app to complete setup and add user codes.
Keep a physical key backup. While rare, smart lock batteries can die or electronics can fail. Most smart locks include a physical key override—keep one hidden securely outside or with a trusted neighbor.
We recommend the August WiFi Smart Lock for its easy installation (it works with your existing key) and broad smart home compatibility.
Step 4: Adding Door/Window Sensors
Contact sensors alert you when doors or windows open—the foundation of any alarm system. They're inexpensive ($15-30 each) and install with adhesive strips.
Where to Place Sensors
- Priority 1: All entry doors (front, back, garage entry)
- Priority 2: Ground-floor windows, especially those hidden from view
- Priority 3: Basement windows and any accessible upper-floor windows
- Optional: Interior doors to private areas (home office, master bedroom)
For comprehensive systems, consider the Ring Alarm system which includes contact sensors, motion detectors, and a base station with optional professional monitoring.
Step 5: Integrating Everything Together
The power of smart security comes from devices working together. Create automations that respond intelligently to events.
Useful Automations
- Away mode: When everyone leaves, arm the system, lock all doors, and enable motion alerts.
- Doorbell → Lights: When someone rings the doorbell at night, turn on porch lights and start recording.
- Motion → Notification: When outdoor cameras detect motion while you're away, send smartphone alerts with video clips.
- Door unlocked → Disarm: When you unlock the front door with your code, automatically disarm the alarm.
Most integrations work through the Alexa, Google Home, or Apple Home apps. For advanced automations, consider hubs like Amazon Echo which supports routines across multiple device brands.
Step 6: Choose Your Monitoring Approach
Professional Monitoring ($10-30/month)
A monitoring center watches for alerts 24/7 and dispatches emergency services if needed. Best for: families, those who travel frequently, or anyone who wants guaranteed response.
Self-Monitoring (Free or low cost)
You receive alerts on your phone and decide how to respond. Best for: tech-savvy users who check their phones frequently and want to avoid monthly fees.
Many homeowners insurance policies offer 5-20% discounts for professionally monitored security systems. Check with your insurer—the savings may offset monitoring costs.
Key Takeaways
- Start with essentials (doorbell camera, outdoor camera, smart lock) and expand over time
- Place cameras 7-10 feet high, avoiding backlighting from sun or bright lights
- Always keep a physical key backup for smart locks
- Prioritize sensors on entry doors and ground-floor windows first
- Create automations to make your system respond intelligently to events
- Consider professional monitoring for guaranteed emergency response