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The Best Business Security Systems Companies of 2021
How We Chose the Best Business Security Systems
Having your own business means more than generating income; your business is where your dreams, plans, passions, and talents live and flourish. Just as your residence needs protection from theft, vandalism, or disaster, security for your business is essential for your peace of mind and the safety of your customers and employees. You’ll find a wide variety of security system vendors touting multiple services and features for businesses. We evaluated leading companies on factors that likely matter most to you.
Video Features
The value of video surveillance can’t be overestimated in today’s climate of increasing crime and fraud. Cameras serve as a physical deterrent to thieves from within and without and provide evidence of wrongdoing for law enforcement. We’ve selected business security systems that integrate features for video surveillance, video storage, and remote access to real-time video feeds.
Alerts/Notifications
Many unfortunate events can occur at a business after hours or when the owner isn’t around. Discovering such instances hours afterward makes investigating extremely difficult. Email and push notification alerts are important to small business owners, so we looked for companies that include these features.
24/7 Alarm, Fire, and Carbon Monoxide Monitoring
People with ill intentions aren’t the only threat to your business. More insidious dangers include smoke and excess carbon monoxide, which many property owners don’t pick up on until it’s too late. We listed security system providers that offer 24/7 smoke and carbon monoxide detection.
The 15 Best Business Security Systems of 2021
abode
abode is a DIY, no-contract smart business security system that you can set up in minutes. Its Standard Plan lets you control and self-monitor your office. With the Pro Plan, abode’s monitoring center keeps your system online if your internet or power fails. The Pro Plan sends a rapid emergency response when needed.
An abode system comes with three parts: a gateway or iota, accessories, and an app. The accessories such as security cameras, sirens, motion sensors, door sensors, glass break sensors, and water leak sensors connect to the gateway. The abode app lets you monitor and control the entire system remotely and create automations, such as turning on lights and other functions.
abode lets you customize your system and expand it as needed. It can work with other smart platform integrations in your establishment, including Google Assistant, Alexa, Siri, and Sonos. abode can also integrate with Z-Wave and Zigbee devices.
| Price | Services | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Plan: $20/month Pro Plan: $60/month | 24/7 Alarm Monitoring Fire/Carbon Monoxide Detection Video Surveillance Video Storage Mobile Access to Livestream Video Remote Arm/Disarm Office Automation Email & Push Notifications | >DIY or professional installation >Customizable >Live support during business hours >More features at abode |
Pros & Cons of abode Business Security System
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| >Free shipping on starter kits >30-day returns and 1-year warranty | >Extra charge for professional installation |
ADT
ADT offers a broad spectrum of security services specifically designed for businesses. ADT’s services come in three packages: Premise Control, Enterprise View, and Total Productivity. These can help you keep your customers, staff, and property safe with tools such as:
- Intrusion detection
- Hold-up alarm monitoring
- Remote access
- Interactive video
- Event history
- Customized scheduling
- Small appliance management
- Alerts and notifications
- Cellular backup
You can create automations to control your doors, lights, or smart thermostat for greater safety and security and manage them from your mobile devices from virtually anywhere. With Video Verification, another set of professional eyes can confirm intrusions and reduce false alarms.
ADT access control technology lets you set up safeguards to restrict unauthorized people from certain areas. The cybersecurity services feature a next-generation firewall device and virtual private network (VPN) to help mitigate the risk of your networks and customer data being hacked.
| Price | Services | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Custom Quote | 24/7 Alarm Monitoring Fire/Carbon Monoxide Detection Video Surveillance Video Storage Mobile Access to Livestream Video Remote Arm/Disarm Office Automation Email & Push Notifications | >3 packages: Premise Control, Enterprise View, Total Productivity >Cybersecurity services >Live support 24/7 >More features at ADT |
Pros & Cons of ADT Business Security System
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| >Business-focused solutions >Free risk assessment >Flexible payment plans | >Long-term contracts >Charge for early termination |
CPI Security System
CPI Security System offers a full suite of business security solutions through CPI Business. Its services can help you prevent theft and damage and increase worker safety in retail, restaurant, industrial, and office settings. CPI’s flexible packages can be customized for small or large buildings as well as multiple locations. Professionally installed options include:
- Intrusion detection
- Access control
- Fire alarm monitoring
- 24/7 HD video surveillance
- Remote monitoring
CPI’s Real Time Response enables highly trained central station operators to act within seconds to protect your business. The operators use video and audio to verify and communicate emergencies to authorities. This also minimizes the possibility of a false alarm.
CPI’s inTouch app gives you control over user codes and lets you know who armed or disarmed your system. Integrated with the IVAN video surveillance component, the app lets you oversee policy compliance and customer behavior. You also have remote access to security camera footage from any device at any time. On the premises, you can control your system with SmartHub Pro, a 7-inch touchscreen panel that can double as a digital advertisement board.
| Price | Services | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Security: $29.99/month + $499.99 equipment cost inTouch Security + Smart Business: $39.99/month + $499.99 equipment cost inTouch Security + Smart Business + Video: $49.99/month + $499.99 equipment cost | 24/7 Alarm Monitoring Fire Detection Video Surveillance Video Storage Mobile Access to Livestream Video Remote Arm/Disarm Email & Push Notifications | >Professional installation >Customizable >24/7 live support via phone, chat >More features at CPI Security System |
Pros & Cons of CPI Security System Business Security System
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| >Extensive business security solutions >Touchscreen panel and app >Free quote | >No office automation or carbon monoxide detection >Services limited to southeastern states |
Frontpoint
Frontpoint offers simple, smart security services and devices for homes and businesses. The company’s systems run on 100% cellular technology and include bank-grade encryption. Each service package comes with preprogrammed equipment for easy DIY installation. There are no long-term commitments, and you can get a refund if you’re not satisfied.
You can build a custom package or purchase one of the following Frontpoint’s kits for your business:
- Safe Home Starter: Includes hub, keypad, two door/window sensors, and one motion sensor
- Safe Home Everyday: Includes additional sensors
- Safe Home Select: Includes professional intrusion and environmental monitoring
- Safe Home Preferred: Includes smart indoor cameras and two-way talk
Every Frontpoint system includes a Frontpoint hub and keypad or touchscreen control panel. Each comes with an extra, built-in Wi-Fi backup, and the hub has a 24-hour backup battery. The keypad is totally wireless, and you can place multiple units throughout your business. Also, the Frontpoint app can be your command center for arming the system, unlocking the door, or adjusting the thermostat remotely.
Frontpoint proactively checks every sensor on an hourly basis. Smash-proof technology ensures your system will keep functioning even if an intruder destroys it. In fact, the company has three fail-safe backups to the dispatch center. Plus, all dispatchers are fully trained in emergency response to get you help quickly.
Qualifying customers can take advantage of monthly payment options on the equipment.
| Price | Services | Features |
|---|---|---|
| $44.99-$49.99/month for monitoring Equipment starts at $319.95 | 24/7 Alarm Monitoring Fire/Water/Carbon Monoxide Detection Video Surveillance Video Storage Mobile Access to Livestream Video Remote Arm/Disarm Office Automation Email & Push Notifications | >100% cellular technology >Preprogrammed equipment >24/7 live support >More features at Frontpoint |
Pros & Cons of Frontpoint Business Security System
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| >100% wireless, smash-proof technology >Up to 20% savings on property insurance >Risk-free trial | >Expensive monthly fees >Video and alerts available only with Preferred plan |
Link Interactive
Link Interactive provides an array of self-installed, professionally monitored security systems for homes and businesses. The company features a customizable Peel & Stick setup with preprogrammed sensors and no drilling or wiring required. Its three plans — Standard, Gold and Elite — come with intrusion, fire, and crash and smash alarm capabilities, in addition to two-way voice between all panels and a central monitoring station.
Link Interactive’s Takeover Program makes it easy to integrate your current security system with the company’s to access remote and automation capabilities. The available equipment includes:
- Control panel
- Motion sensor
- Door/window sensor
- Image sensor
- Wireless indoor and cameras
- Smoke/heat/freeze sensor
- Disaster sensor
- Recessed door sensor
- Panic button
- Key ring remote
Customers can choose one-, two- or three-year contract options with rates locked in for the full term. If you move, you can install your system in your new location with no additional transfer or activation fees, or you can have the new owners assume the contract where you left off.
| Price | Services | Features |
|---|---|---|
| $30.99-$44.99/month | 24/7 Alarm Monitoring Fire/Carbon Monoxide Detection Video Surveillance Video Storage Mobile Access to Livestream Video Remote Arm/Disarm Office Automation Email & Push Notifications | >DIY installation >100% cellular >Support available weekdays from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. CST and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. CST >More features at Link Interactive |
Pros & Cons of Link Interactive Business Security System
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| >Can integrate current equipment into Link's system >Low prices >30-day money-back guarantee and 3-year warranty on equipment | >Technical knowledge required for some features >Automation and video monitoring available with Gold or Elite plans |
Lorex
Lorex equips homes and businesses with a variety of self-monitoring security cameras and systems incorporating two to 32 cameras. System options are preassembled with all the components you need to set up quickly. These include:
- Digital IP systems: Ideal for larger properties and high-traffic areas
- MPX systems: Suitable for small businesses, farms and urban properties
- Wire-free systems: Great for home-based business and low-traffic areas
Lorex features a selection of specialty pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) varifocal cameras that can quickly capture what’s happening with vivid detail and let you zoom in and out from your mobile device. Thermal cameras detect moving heat signatures and elevated body and machine temperatures. The vandal-proof, weatherproof cameras are suitable for indoor or outdoor use and are able to function under violent, repeated impacts. They come with multifeatured heavy-duty recorders that can run 24/7 and connect to your system through Lorex’s mobile apps.
Lorex offers flexible equipment payment options through Klarna.
| Price | Services | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Security camera system: Starting at $299.99 | 24/7 Alarm Monitoring Video Surveillance Video Storage Mobile Access to Livestream Video Remote Arm/Disarm Office Automation Email & Push Notifications | >Self-monitoring >Specialty cameras >Phone and chat support Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. EST >More features at Lorex |
Pros & Cons of Lorex Business Security System
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| >Free shipping and 30-day returns >Free repairs or replacements >Standard 2-year warranty | >No professional monitoring >No fire/carbon monoxide detection |
Protect America
Protect America, now backed by Brinks Home Security, offers simple, affordable security systems with options for complete smart automation. Its plans — Copper, Silver and Platinum — include control panels, sensors, and motion detectors along with 24/7 professional monitoring. They also come with a locked-in rate and limited lifetime warranty. Each system is custom-built and shipped directly to you for easy DIY, or you can choose professional installation.
With professional installation, a trained industry expert can customize your system configurations and train you accordingly. They will assess your existing equipment and offer enhancements if feasible.
Protect America’s interior motion detection devices sense heat and movement and promptly signal a monitoring station. The company’s cameras give you 24/7 live video monitoring with two-way voice capability. Door, window, and glass-break sensors provide full perimeter protection. A mobile app allows for complete remote system control as well.
| Price | Services | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Plans: Custom Quote Professional monitoring: $39.99/month | 24/7 Alarm Monitoring Fire/Carbon Monoxide Detection Video Surveillance Video Storage Mobile Access to Livestream Video Remote Arm/Disarm Office Automation Email & Push Notifications | >DIY or professional installation >Locked-in rate >24/7 professional monitoring >More features at Protect America |
Pros & Cons of Protect America Business Security System
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| >Locked-in rate >Limited lifetime warranty >30-day money-back guarantee | >Long-term commitment on cellular backup |
SafeMart
SafeMart offers affordable professional home and small business security products, including alarms and security cameras. Its LiveWatch Security service uses an exclusive, interactive Plug & Protect alarm system and cellular communication. SafeMart protects customers with three redundant monitoring centers and alarm monitoring for theft, fire, freeze, flood, smoke, and carbon monoxide.
SafeMart’s services include:
- Wired or wireless security systems
- Alarm systems
- Alarm system monitoring
- VOIP alarm monitoring
- Security cameras
- Security camera monitoring
- Office automation
The company configures your system according to your needs and remotely activates your wireless service when you self-install. It incorporates products from multiple sources, including GE, Honeywell, Ademco, and Visonic. You may be able to integrate your current security products as well.
SafeMart uses the latest smart technology with an intuitive computer and mobile interface for optimal convenience and control. You can arm and disarm your system and receive real-time email and text notifications with the app. You’ll also receive location-based and severe weather alerts.
| Price | Services | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Monitoring: $29.99/month Equipment: $29-$299 | 24/7 Alarm Monitoring Fire/Carbon Monoxide Detection Video Surveillance Video Storage Mobile Access to Livestream Video Remote Arm/Disarm Office Automation Email & Push Notifications | >DIY installation >Customizable >24/7 support >More features at SafeMart |
Pros & Cons of SafeMart Business Security System
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| >Low cost >Integrates with many brands of smart devices | >Extra cost for video surveillance |
Scout
Scout is a DIY security products dealer that lets customers build Wi-Fi self-monitoring systems with cutting-edge hardware and intuitive controls. Scout’s sensors and cameras sync seamlessly with third-party smart devices and mobile apps. Paid plans include 24/7 professional monitoring, power backup, and 4G cellular backup.
Scout lets you purchase just the individual components you need to feel safe. It also offers four Scout Packs with varying coverage options:
- Scout Small Pack: Includes hub, door panel, motion sensor, access sensor, and key fobs
- Scout Large Pack: Includes extra motion and access sensors
- Scout Elements Pack: Includes smoke alarm and water sensor
- Scout Architect Pack: Includes smart lock and glass break sensor
The Scout Hub, which is the brains of your system, plugs into your router and communicates wirelessly with sensors and other integrations, and it features a 105 dB siren to deter intruders. The door panel also houses a loud siren and allows you to arm or disarm your system without a phone. An indoor camera with sound detection and a video doorbell lets you watch over your business and answer the door from anywhere. The Scout App gives you live video feed and lets you control your entire system from any mobile device.
| Price | Services | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Always On: $9.99/month Always On+: $19.99/month *Equipment not included | 24/7 Alarm Monitoring Fire/Water Detection Video Surveillance Video Storage Mobile Access to Livestream Video Remote Arm/Disarm Office Automation Email & Push Notifications | >DIY installation >Completely customizable >24/7 monitoring available >More features at Scout |
Pros & Cons of Scout Alarm Business Security System
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| >Low prices with no contract >60-day free returns >3-year warranty | >Professional monitoring available only with higher plan >Two-way audio, local storage not available >No outdoor camera |
Secom
Secom offers integrated security systems powered by Alarm.com for small businesses. The systems connect to a 24/7 professional monitoring station that not only protects against burglaries but can alert business owners to fire, flood, or medical emergencies. Customizable service options include intrusion detections, access control, CCTV, and energy management using a combination of:
- Video surveillance
- Motion detectors
- Window and door alarms
- Glass break sensors
Secom’s security monitoring gives you access to single and multisite viewing, Livestreaming, and recorded video from any location. With high-definition video, your system can capture suspicious activity. You’ll have full control over locks, lights, and thermostats.
Secom features an intuitive user interface on its website dashboard and mobile app. The interface lets you arm and disarm all alarm systems, view and manage who enters the premises in real time, and receive customized notifications. With Secom, break-ins prompt an automatic alert to authorities with no action needed on your part. Remote access lets you verify or cancel an alarm from any place with an internet connection at any time.
| Price | Services | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Custom Quote | 24/7 Alarm Monitoring Fire/Flood Detection Video Surveillance Video Storage Mobile Access to Livestream Video Remote Arm/Disarm Office Automation Email & Push Notifications | >Professional installation >Customizable systems >Professional monitoring >More features at Secom |
Pros & Cons of Secom Business Security System
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| >National coverage with highly vetted integrators >Fire, flood and medical alerts | >No carbon monoxide detection |
SimpliSafe
SimpliSafe provides robust security products and services for businesses with one or many locations. Clients can create their own custom security system or choose a package that arrives ready to install and function immediately. SimpliSafe automatically updates to provide you with the latest protection technology available.
SimpliSafe equips you for the unexpected with smash-safe products and custom long-range micro-antennas. Its precision-engineered motion sensors detect the unique heat signature of humans, filtering out pet movements. You’ll get protection from theft, smoke, carbon monoxide, and water damage. Your system will alert you if your facility is at risk of freezing as well.
Should your power fail, your system has a backup battery that lasts for 24 hours. Built-in Wi-Fi and cellular communication capabilities ensure you stay connected to SimpliSafe’s six monitoring centers across the nation. The Interactive Monitoring option sends you notifications and lets you arm or disarm your system from anywhere via a computer or mobile device.
| Price | Services | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Starts at $200 | 24/7 Alarm Monitoring Fire/Carbon Monoxide Detection Video Surveillance Video Storage Mobile Access to Livestream Video Remote Arm/Disarm Office Automation Email & Push Notifications | >DIY installation >Smash-safe equipment >24/7 monitoring >More features at SimpliSafe |
Pros & Cons of Simplisafe Business Security System
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| >3-year warranty >60-day money-back guarantee | >Limited equipment options |
STANLEY Security
STANLEY Security helps businesses design comprehensive security solutions using a range of best-in-class technologies. Its skilled technicians install and service security devices including motion detectors, sensors, and other electronic security implements from Honeywell, Pacom, and others. The spectrum of services includes systems that cover:
- Visitor management
- Video surveillance
- Data analytics
- Thermal temperature screening
- Fire detection
- Cybersecurity
- Personal safety
- Active shooter detection
STANLEY Security features cloud-based access control that empowers you to manage user access remotely. This option easily integrates with your current CCTV or video security system. Additionally, the provider offers verified video and Sonitrol audio verification that lets highly trained personnel confirm intrusions and quietly activate your alarm if necessary.
| Price | Services | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Custom Quote | 24/7 Alarm Monitoring Fire/Carbon Monoxide Detection Video Surveillance Video Storage Mobile Access to Livestream Video Remote Arm/Disarm Office Automation Email & Push Notifications | >Professional installation >Cloud-based technology >24/7 professional monitoring >More features at STANLEY Security |
Pros & Cons of STANLEY Security Business Security System
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| >Free security consultation >Bilingual monitoring | >May be pricier than other services |
Vector Security
Vector Security strives to implement cost-effective, reliable security services for residences and businesses of any size. Its end-to-end solutions include consultation, design, installation, and monitoring. Security packages utilize equipment from leading manufacturers for motion detection, video surveillance, wireless communication, and smart integrations. Small businesses can ask for a customized plan or choose from among these options:
- Essential Security
- Connected Home
- Home Automation
Vector offers indoor, outdoor, and doorbell security cameras that provide you with live footage and two-way communication. These devices feature infrared night vision and cloud recording. You can control all of them and other smart devices from the Vector Security App.
Add-ons are available to enhance your system’s functionality for access control, energy management, and environmental hazard monitoring. With the carbon monoxide detector and smoke detector features, Vector’s central station looks out for your business 24/7 even if your system isn’t armed. Medical alert buttons and pendants are available as well.
| Price | Services | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Professional monitoring: $39.99/month Connected business package: $99/month | 24/7 Alarm Monitoring Fire/Carbon Monoxide Detection Video Surveillance Video Storage Mobile Access to Livestream Video Remote Arm/Disarm Office Automation Email & Push Notifications | >Professional installation >Smart integrations >24/7 monitoring >More features at Vector Security |
Pros & Cons of Vector Security Business Security System
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| >Free business security assessment >Medical alert service available | >Strict cancellation policy |
Vivint
Vivint protects businesses of all types and sizes with streamlined smart security solutions. It uses several connection methods, including cellular, for fast, steady monitoring. Systems are completely customizable and feature:
- Indoor and outdoor surveillance cameras
- Motion detectors, door/window sensors, and glass break sensors
- Loud alarm
- 24/7 monitoring
In addition to purchasing equipment, you’ll need to sign up for a monthly monitoring plan. Businesses can choose Smart Security or Smart Control, which includes video support. Vivint’s smart home pros perform professional installations at no extra charge and teach you how to make the most of your system.
You can expand your system with Vivint’s smart home/office automations, such as the Element Thermostat, smart lock, or Philips Hue smart lighting for an additional equipment charge. You can also integrate Google Home, Alexa, and hundreds of Z-Wave smart devices. Your system lets you configure dozens of native smart features for total control over your security and business environment.
One outstanding feature of Vivint’s indoor camera, the Ping, is its one-touch callout button. It has a button that anyone can push to send a notification to your app, which you can open to view livestream footage of the area. The Ping features two-way communication as well.
| Price | Services | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Custom Quote | 24/7 Alarm Monitoring Fire/Carbon Monoxide Detection Video Surveillance Video Storage Mobile Access to Livestream Video Remote Arm/Disarm Office Automation Email & Push Notifications | >Professional installation >Completely customizable >24/7 monitoring >More features at Vivint |
Pros & Cons of Vivint Business Security System
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| >Zero-interest Flex Pay program >Free professional installation | >Can be costly |
Wyze
Wyze Cams are budget-friendly Wi-Fi security cameras, and the manufacturer offers two property surveillance packages: The Basic plan and Cam Plus. The Basic plan gives you sound-, smoke,- and carbon monoxide-triggered alerts. Cam Plus gives you person detection, unlimited event video length, unlimited motion-triggered alerts, and no cool-down period between event videos.
Beginning in 2021, home-based businesses may be able to take advantage of the company’s new Wyze Home Monitoring. This professionally monitored service will incorporate Wyze’s cutting-edge AI system with no long-term contracts. Not only will it provide protection from threats of intrusion, fire, and water, but this service will also let you monitor utility consumption.
| Price | Services | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Smart Home starter pack: $99 $1.99/camera/month | 24/7 Alarm Monitoring Fire/Carbon Monoxide Detection Video Surveillance Video Storage Mobile Access to Livestream Video Remote Arm/Disarm Automation Email & Push Notifications | >2 plans: Basic Plan and Cam Plus; Wyze Home Monitoring available soon >Integrates with Alexa Guard Plus >24/7 support with Cam Plus >More features at Wyze |
Pros & Cons of Wyze Business Security System
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| >Low prices >Two-week free trial for devices >Can transfer services between devices | >No wireless cameras >No cellular backup >Professional monitoring not currently available |
What Is a Business Security System?
A business security system consists of interworking devices that detect and record the movement of people at your business facility. Some vendors offer prepackaged kits, but security systems of any type can be expanded to meet your needs. A security system can give business owners and employees the peace of mind that comes with having an extra set of eyes and ears to verify activity around the clock.
A basic business security system typically includes one or more of these components:
- Control panel
- Wired or wireless security cameras
- Door and window sensors
- Motion sensors
- High-decibel alarm or siren
- Signage
Budget systems are typically self-monitoring, meaning that you or your staff will be the only ones viewing activity, receiving alerts, and calling authorities should the need arise. Professional monitoring often comes with higher-priced plans. With this service, a centralized call center monitors your facility around the clock and instantly connects you with or alerts the appropriate authorities in an emergency.
Depending on the provider and plan you choose, your system may or may not send you text or email notifications in the event of a security breach. Many systems come with remote capabilities that let you control access, lighting, and temperature settings from any mobile device. Some services also provide cybersecurity options to protect data, often a business’s most important asset.
Benefits of a Business Security System
Protecting your enterprise with a business security system offers benefits that far outweigh the cost:
- Proof of suspicious activity: Your business security system provides and records clear evidence of criminal activity on your premises. You’ll know exactly what happened and have evidence to share with law enforcement if needed.
- Employee safety: A business security system can protect your workers in the event of a customer dispute, providing real-time evidence that they acted within company guidelines. A system can also help you identify workplace safety risks so you can adjust procedures accordingly.
- Fraud prevention: Without a business security system, evidence of employee theft or fabricated customer complaints can be extremely difficult to verify. Video and/or audio verification make it much easier to defend your business against fraudulent activity.
- Monitor customer activity: Your surveillance cameras show you how customers navigate through your business, so you can adjust your merchandise placement to capture their attention. A security system also benefits customers in the event of an unfortunate situation, such as a fall or poor customer service.
- Insurance discounts: Protecting your business from break-ins, fires, or water damage reduces the risk that your insurance company takes on your property. Many insurers provide significant discounts when you have a monitored security system in place.
Must-Have Features for a Business Security System
Leading security system companies offer a host of products and services to help you protect your business. Some components are essential, such as sensors, alarms, video surveillance, and fire detection. Technological advances have created more must-have features that provide greater levels of convenience and control for small business owners:
- Wireless technology: Not so long ago, the telephone line that was easily rendered useless by an intruder was the Achilles’ heel of classic alarm systems. Many home-based businesses and small offices now use mobile phones or VoIP instead of landlines, so wireless connectivity is a requirement for uninterrupted security monitoring and communication.
- Automation: The security system you use should turn your smart devices into portals of real-time information about what’s going on in and around your business premises and provide control over it. You no longer have to be at the office to unlock the doors, adjust the temperature, or keep an eye on customers, workers, or inventory if your security provider offers this capability.
- Cybersecurity: Research indicates small businesses suffer from 43% of cyberattacks, and 60% of cybercrime victims go out of business within six months. Larger companies tend to prioritize cybersecurity, but many small operations are unaware of their vulnerabilities or how to mitigate them. Your business security system needs built-in cybersecurity functions to preserve the integrity of customer and company data.
The Cost of a Business Security System
Business security systems vary widely in cost depending on the equipment and services you use. A home security system may suffice for many small businesses; However, some providers offer special systems and pricing for businesses. With a self-monitored system, you can expect to pay for the various components. If you opt for a monitored security system, you’ll have the added cost of a monthly monitoring fee. When choosing a provider or product, be sure that you fully understand the up-front and long-term costs.
Consider these questions as you determine what system fits your security needs and budget:
- Hardware: A prepackaged system may be all you require, or you may need to customize your setup with extra components. How many entry points do you want to cover? Do you want indoor and outdoor monitoring?
- DIY or professional installation: Can or must you install your own equipment, or do you have the option of professional installation? Does the provider charge extra for professional installation?
- Contract stipulations: Must you commit to a long-term arrangement? Is there a discount for annual subscriptions? Is a business security service more economical than a home security option?
- Landline vs cellular: Landline monitoring is typically more cost-effective than cellular monitoring, but it’s more vulnerable to disruptions and attacks by burglars. Can your business afford the extra cost of cellular service?