Finding The Best Home Security System For Your Needs

Lorex SD9 Wireless Security Camera System - The Best Seller!

I'm getting ahead of myself, though. Let's just start with the most fundamental factors so that you have a good baseline of information to work from once you get into the more advanced features:

1. Wireless Connectivity. Can you imagine yourself in the shoes of a thief or home intruder? I know it's hard, but sometimes you have to put yourself in the mind of a hypothetical criminal in order to best prepare yourself against a real one! This is especially important when you think about just how "hidden" a security camera can be when it has a rat's nest of network and power cables coming out of it. The answer is "not at all." Do yourself a favor and go wireless!
2. Sufficient Camera Coverage. If you are thinking about purchasing a specific camera system, make sure that it features cameras that will cover enough surface area for your needs. You would be surprised at how variable the field of view can be across different product ranges, so I would recommend checking out some user reviews with an eye toward any complaints about camera coverage. When you do get your camera system set up, fire up the control software and flip through the different camera feeds. Make sure that they don't overlap too much so that you're getting the most coverage out of your investment.
3. Brand Name. This is going to sound more like marketing speak than useful advice, but take it from me: You want to go with one of the bigger brand names like Lorex, Defender, or Logitech (to name just three). These companies have achieved their success by providing products that meet a certain minimum standard of quality. Additionally, the support and warranty terms that these larger companies provide are almost universally better than what some fly-by-night can offer!
4. Active Support Community. I almost feel like I should have mentioned this one first because it's hugely important. Notice that I said support community, as in lots of people getting together and talking about the product(s) in question. Nothing beats the ability to pick the brain of another user, not even talking to an official support rep. Nothing against tech support people, but when I have a problem with a product that I purchased, I always opt to talk to another person that has likely had the same issues. These "super-users" are enthusiastic enough to hang out on forums and help new users, so that means they are probably very confident in their knowledge. I highly recommend taking advantage of this great resource.
5. Expandability. A quick word about expansions: Most security camera systems come with one camera, or maybe two at most. This allows you to test out the system and get to grips with the control software, but this is generally not enough cameras to cover most people's homes. Make sure to get a system that will accommodate enough cameras to cover all the areas that you are concerned with. Camera systems range anywhere from 2 to 16 cameras generally, and if you need more coverage you can always buy another system!