The Best Home Security System Is Modular (2026)

One morning, almost seven years ago, I woke up to the sound of my phone ringing on my bedside table. As I sat up and the world slowly began to come to a close, I heard the sound of a siren, the likes of which I had not heard in our year of living in the house – from somewhere below. I answered my phone.

“Hello, this is Officer (pictured) from the police department (in my town). I hear there has been an accident?” asked a man’s voice, the engine of the car revving to the ground. “You need help?” At that moment, my middle school son burst out of our bedroom door in a panic.

Apparently he woke up in the morning, went into the garage for some lost time reason, set off the alarm, and forgot about our garage. Smart lock why back in the house. Later he remembered, but it was too late. Our home security service, SimpliSafe, called to see if it was a false alarm, and, when they got the answer, they sent the police.

I immediately explained to the officer what had happened to me, and saved him the journey home, but my heart was strengthened by the knowledge that my safety, which I had put on myself in a few minutes without weapons when we first entered, had done its job. Even so, the incident disturbed me enough to warrant our promotion.

In the years since that morning, I have grown my SimpliSafe system. I now have a smoke alarm listener for our robust smoke alarm network, CO smart₂ a monitor, an outdoor camera with a planar light, and an extra lock I added to my front door.

All these extensions were easy for me to set up myself and I did not have to increase the monthly payment, which is not locked in any long term contract, unlike competitors like ADT. My SimpliSafe journey hasn’t been smooth sailing, especially with the smart lock and external camera (more on that below), but if you’re intimidated by the idea of ​​owning or installing a security system, SimpliSafe and its DIY ecosystem might be worth it.

Business Management

SimpliSafe

8-Piece Wireless Home Security System

The heart of the SimpliSafe system is its base, which looks like essential oil diffuserincluding a keyboard, where you can stop and clear the alarm and monitor additional devices. You can also do this using the linked app. I keep the base in the cabinet, but you can put it anywhere with the outlet (it also works to save the battery if the lights go out), and put the keyboard next to the door with the attached sticker. The system is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home and runs on 2.4-GHz Wi-Fi.