When Should You Install DIY Security Systems?

When considering security options, there’s dozens of different set-ups and price-points available, from the one-man shop to the enterprise corporations. “DIY” security programs might seem cheaper on the outset, but could be comparatively ineffective when considering professional security partners. In that case, you’d basically throw your money away in a valiant attempt to save it — something no business can support for long.

So, when can you manage your business’s security needs on your own? And when is it time to invest in a professionally managed security system? Let’s dive in!

A DIY System Might Be Cheaper Upfront, But Cost More In the Long Run

There are a ton of DIY security systems on the market today, from residential home security alarms to CCTV installations, from professional-grade “out of the box” kits to Macgyvered systems crafted out of old webcams and car batteries. (Really.)

The advantages of such a system often involve the upfront investment required to get a system up-and-running. The individual hardware pieces tend to be cheaper, and the only installation labor rates you pay is your own elbow grease. If you’re tech-savvy, you might also be able to add additional custom parts and protocols that would cost you tons from a professional service.

However, DIY security systems and alarms have several fundamental problems as out-of-the-box solutions that — installed by non-professionals — still place your investments at risk of theft and vandalism.

DIY Security System Vulnerabilities

• DIY security systems can be vulnerable to “Crash and Smash” crime, according to security expert David DeMille, especially older systems installed by someone else. These crimes are when a burglar crashes into a building and smashes the alarm’s control panel to prevent the alarm signal reaching the system’s owners. While some manufacturers have made significant strides in this area, it’s still a significant risk to consider if you’ve got an all-in-one alarm keypad and control panel within easy reach.
• Effective video camera placement is exceptionally difficult for the average person to do, not to mention picking appropriate hardware. (For example, you may opt for a “better” camera that can record up to 400 feet away. But, that leaves your property vulnerable to sneaks coming at closer ranges.)
• All security protocols and monitoring falls on you, the installer and owner of the system. Many DIY security systems are purposefully crippled by their users, tired of false alarms triggered by moving shadows or an employee staying late at the shop. What is the point of a security system with its alarms turned off?
• If you want to expand to other security systems, then you’ll have to wrangle hardware and software integrations on your own… If it’s even possible. So, adding video cameras or keyless entry readers to supplement an intruder alert system might not work the way you need it to. At best, DIY security systems involve using multiple pieces of software to handle each component of your security system. Your cameras won’t “speak” to your alarms; neither will your access control system.

When a DIY Security System Can Be Used

So, when is a DIY security system the right choice to protect thousands — millions — of dollars’ worth of business assets?

• You’ve fully analyzed your security needs and know exactly how your selected DIY system will fully protect your assets. AND,
• You understand the strengths and limitations of your chosen hardware, along with perfect placement and installation practices. AND,
• You’re willing to inspect each and every alarm, every time — without ever disengaging your alarm system because it’s “annoying” or “unnecessary.” AND,
• You’re prepared to deal with multiple systems that refuse to “speak” to one another and will never integrate fully.

As a professional security solution provider, we’re obviously a bit biased on this point. However, we truly believe that we — and other reputable professional security providers — provide an infinitely more secure solution than any DIY system could hope to replicate.

Simply put, there is no substitute for a professionally installed and monitored security system for your business, especially if your goal is to deter theft before it even begins.

Still, we understand that everyone’s personal business security system is unique. There’s no conceivable way we could cover every eventuality or possibility that’s available on the security market, either in DIY solutions or for professional security companies. If you’re not sure what would be right for you, we’re always happy to work with you to discover your true security needs and how you can best fill them.

Originally published at Eyewitness Surveillance.