Imagine walking into a home that knows when to turn on the lights, lock the doors, adjust the temperature, and alert you to a possible intruder. This isn’t some sci-fi novel – it’s reality in 2025 thanks to automated home security.
Smart home security promotes and improves safety across American households. From doorbell cameras to automated security sensors, these interconnected systems give homeowners control over their living spaces.
In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits and essential components of an automated home security system. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or a renter looking for security, this is the guide for you.
In this Guide
- What is Smart Home Automation?
- The Benefits of Automated Home Security
- Home Security Devices
- Smart Door Locks
- Security Sensors
- Home Surveillance Cameras
- Smart Thermostats and Lighting
- How to Connect Your Smart Security Devices
- Backup Generators: Home Automation at All Times
- Start Creating a Secure and Smarter Home
What is Smart Home Automation?
Smart home automation is the process of connecting various components of your home, such as lights, thermostats, and other electronics, into a unified system. The purpose of home automation is to simplify and make operating these household devices more convenient. Additionally, automation can help increase energy savings and security.
These systems are comprised of three main parts:
Devices- Devices execute the command transmitted from the hub. Popular security devices include smart cameras, thermostats, lights, smart sensors, and more. We’ll cover these later in the article. s simple as a single security agent or as complex as installing a commercial gate security system.
Hub– Sends and receives commands to connected devices. Siri and Google Home are a couple of examples of hubs. For instance, if your smart lights are connected to Google Home, then you can verbally command the hub to turn on and off your lights.
Network- The network is the medium that transmits information from the hub. Networks are wired or wireless. For example, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, and Z-Wave are a few wireless networks.
The Benefits of Automated Home Security
Automated home security enhances both safety and convenience for homeowners and renters. With smart locks, you can control entry points remotely – no need to make duplicate keys or worry about lost copies. For instance, if you’re hosting guests, you can assign them a temporary access code or unlock the door from your phone, no matter where you are.
Home security systems also integrate with surveillance cameras, alarms, and sensors. If someone tries to break in, a window or door sensor can immediately send an alert to your phone. You can then check the video in real time to see what’s happening and respond quickly.
These are just a few benefits of how powerful integrated home security can be. Now, let’s take a look at some of the most important devices.
Smart Door Locks for Automated Home Security
Smart locks combine typical lock-and-key components with electronic technology. These locks offer users more convenience at entrances around your property. When it comes to selecting a smart door lock, you can choose from several different kinds.
What Kinds of Smart Locks Exist?
- Deadbolt Locks
- Locks with Doorbell Cameras
- Smart Padlocks
- Touchpad locks
- Palm Vein Locks
- Fingerprint Locks
- Bluetooth Smart Locks
There are many options and just as many manufacturers, so make sure you choose a smart lock that fits your space and preferred entry method.
How do Smart Locks Work?
The first step is to install your smart lock. Often, installation can be accomplished using a DIY approach and basic tools. However, low-voltage-trained technicians are also available to save you time and make sure the job gets done right.
After installation, the lock must be connected to a Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or other designated signal (like Z-Wave or Zigbee).
Smart locks are commonly used on front and back doors to manage entry securely, but they’re also useful for garage doors, interior rooms, and home offices. Whether enhancing everyday convenience or improving security and access management, smart locks are a key component of modern smart homes.
Buyer’s Guide: Smart Locks
When shopping for smart locks, make sure you have a plan regarding the space you need to secure. Consider the size of the room and its entrances. Additionally, it’s important to determine how your smart locks will integrate into your security plan. Will you need a standalone lock or a lock connected to your other parts of your security system?
Other Aspects to Consider
- Compatibility– Make sure you choose a lock that is compatible with your preferred credential type – whether it’s a keypad, biometric scanner, or mobile key card.
- Internet- Make sure you have a strong internet connection.
- Mobile App- Consider investing in a smart lock that comes with a mobile app, so you can monitor your entrance from afar. .
Sensors for Automated Home Security Systems
Security sensors detect movement, entry, and environmental changes, warning you of potential danger. You might think you’re living in Goldfinger or The Night at the Museum, but security sensors are an essential part of home security automation.
These devices offer real-time alerts and can be integrated with smart hubs – like Google Home or Alexa.
What Kinds of Security Sensors Exist?
Smart sensors exist for all different types of scenarios and areas. Whether you’re living in an apartment and want to know when your loft window is ajar, or a multi-story house with a home theatre system you want to protect, you can find the smart sensor that’s right for you. Here are some types of smart sensors for your home:
- Door/Window Contact Sensors- Detect when a door or window is opened or closed.
- Motion Sensors- Use infrared or microwave technology to detect movement in a space.
- Glass Break Sensors- Trigger an alert when the sound or vibration of breaking glass is detected.
- Vibration Sensors- Sense physical impacts or tampering on windows or doors.
- Environmental Sensors- The most common sensors are smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. However, there are flood and temperature sensors, too. These help catch environmental hazards and alert you to take action.
How Do Smart Security Sensors Work?
How a smart sensor works depends on its type. For example, window sensors function in a fairly simple way. Window sensors are composed of two parts – a magnet and an alarm transmitter. When in contact, these components create a circuit. However, when a window opens, the contact between the magnet and alarm transmitter is severed, tripping the electrical circuit. A signal is then sent to your alarm keypad or home security app that someone has opened the window.
On the other hand, motion sensors function completely differently. These smart sensors often use low-frequency, passive infrared (PIR) waves. When an object disrupts the sensor’s field of view, the sensor registers the change and generates an electrical signal. The signal initiates an alarm.
Buyer’s Guide: Smart Security Sensors
When choosing a motion sensor, consider these key factors:
1. Sensor type– Microwave or PIR?
2. Range required– How big is your room?
3. Sensitivity– Can you adjust and calibrate the sensor?
4. Power and Integration– Where will you draw power for your sensors, and how will they integrate into your home automation system?
Home Surveillance Cameras
Surveillance cameras are another important piece of home security. Popular camera manufacturers include Ring, Wyze, and Arlo, with prices ranging from $30 to $300 per camera.
The price of home surveillance cameras varies by feature as well. Some of the features to consider when shopping are:
- Two-way intercoms
- Resolution: HD, 2K, 4K
- Zoom
- Night Vision
- Infrared
- Day/Night Mode
- App compatible
- Records audio
What are the Types of Home Surveillance Cameras?
Outdoor Cameras- According to CNET, 1 in 6 adults in the United States fell victim to package theft. As a preventative measure, outdoor security cameras can be used to deter and stop crime like package theft. These cameras are more durable than indoor cameras and are often connected via Wi-Fi.
Indoor Cameras- Indoor security cameras are designed to monitor your home’s interior from home offices to entertainment rooms. They offer real-time motion and audio alerts when someone enters. These cameras also help document break-ins, aiding law enforcement. However, indoor cameras help protect your home from crime even before a criminal enters. In a University of North Carolina study, 83% of burglars scanned for cameras, and 60% chose to bypass homes with them.
Wired Cameras- Wired security cameras deliver video via an Ethernet or coax cable. These cameras can be connected to a recorder where high-resolution footage is stored – without any Wi‑Fi interference. Their reliability makes them a top choice for sustained indoor surveillance.
Bullet cameras- These are long and cylindrical, making them ideal for targeted monitoring, such as driveways, entryways, or backyards. Bullet cameras are typically mounted to walls or ceilings and offer a fixed viewing angle. They can capture high-definition footage, and their visible presence can act as a deterrent to intruders.
- Pan, Tilt, Zoom Cameras- Homeowners love PTZ cameras because they can be controlled remotely. If an intruder enters your property when you are away from your home, you can track them using a PTZ camera. These cameras can pan side-to-side, tilt up and down, and zoom in for detailed views, making them ideal for monitoring large areas like driveways and yards.
How Do Home Security Cameras Work?
Home security cameras stream and record video to your video management system (VMS) via Wi-Fi or a low-voltage cable (e.g., CAT-5 ethernet). From the VMS, you’ll be able to monitor your cameras anywhere there’s an internet connection. So whether you’re using a doorbell camera, like a Ring, or a bullet camera, they will integrate into your smart home in much the same way.
Pro tip: Reach out to a trusted security installer who can help you set up your camera system and connect it to your video management system, saving you the hassle.
Step Into the Future: Smart Thermostats & Lighting
Forget clunky thermostats and flipping switches – today’s homes are getting smarter. With smart thermostats and lighting, your home can anticipate your needs. Whether you’re optimizing for energy savings, convenience, or pure atmosphere, these smart upgrades bring next-level control.
What Are Smart Thermostats and Smart Lights?
Smart Thermostats
More than just temperature regulators, smart thermostats learn your routines. They adjust heating and cooling based on your schedule, presence, and even weather forecasts. Many models connect with Alexa and Google Home, letting you tweak the temperature with your voice.
Smart Lighting
Smart lights do a lot more than turn on and off. You can dim them, change their color, and automate them to suit your day. Homeowners who often forget to turn the lights off before leaving will benefit from the ability to control smart lighting from their smartphones.
Smart Thermostats: What Makes Them Smart?
The term “smart ____” has been thrown around the tech consumer sphere for the last decade. So, you’d be right to be a bit skeptical. But what makes a smart thermostat smart? Here are a few of the features:
- Learning Schedules
Some thermostats learn your habits over time and create automatic heating/cooling routines.
- Geofencing
Your thermostat knows when you’ve left the house (based on your phone’s location) and adjusts accordingly to save energy.
- Room-by-Room Control
With additional sensors, you can control the temperature of different zones in your home for maximum comfort.
- Remote Access
Whether you’re on the couch or on vacation, adjust the temperature from anywhere using your phone or voice assistant.
Smart Lighting: Customize Your Space
Smart lighting does more than turn your room into a bohemian den of color. It also can help you save energy and better set the mood.
Motion & Schedule Automation- Set your lights to turn on when you enter a room, or dim in the evening, automatically.
Bulbs vs. Switches- Smart bulbs are easy to install and great for renters, while smart switches offer more control over entire fixtures (and work with regular bulbs).
Color & Brightness Control- Create vibrant party lighting, a calming before-bed feel, or natural sunrise simulations.
Motion & Schedule Automation- Set your lights to turn on when you enter a room, or dim in the evening, automatically.
Power On!: How to Connect Your Smart Security Devices
Your home now looks like a miniature smart home expo. From front door to garage, you’ve armed yourself with the latest gadgets, yet there’s still a problem: none of it is connected.
You have three choices when it comes to smart security installation:
- Give up and return your smart security equipment– “Regular door locks are good enough!”
- DIY Smart Security– Spend your precious free time (and sanity) trying to manually connect your smart security.
- Hire a Smart Security Installation Professional– Enjoy sipping margaritas by the pool while a smart security professional installs and connects your system. It will cost you a bit, but you’ll have the peace of mind that it’s been installed successfully.
We’re obviously biased here, but hiring a certified professional pays off. A SafeTouch technician will guarantee your investment is installed and functioning correctly from day one – saving you time, inconvenience, and money.
Backup Generators: Automated Home Security at All Times
Extreme weather events have increased in frequency and intensity. As a result, the possibility of having a weather-induced power outage is more likely. These power outages can knock out your home security system, putting you at risk. To ensure your security stays online at all times, consider purchasing a standby or backup generator.
Whether you’re experiencing a flood or snowstorm, a backup generator makes your alarms, cameras, and monitoring devices stay online and your property safe.. In addition to safety, a generator ensures you can access vital news updates, stay in touch with loved ones, and continue managing smart home systems without interruption.
With a wide range of options, from cost-effective gasoline models to solar systems, you have many options. Learn more about standby generators and how they will support your home automation.
Start Creating a Secure and Smarter Home Today
You know your security needs better than anyone, so don’t settle for a security system that isn’t tailored to your goals. Safetouch experts can help you assess, purchase, install, and monitor your security. With over 30 years of industry experience, we’ve got the knowledge to guide you through home surveillance cameras, smart sensors, and more. Plus, our security team will monitor your system 24/7, and with a guaranteed response time of 45 seconds or less, we’ll always have your back. Give us a call at 888.895.SAFE (7233) to speak with a SafeTouch expert today!