Whether you want to protect your home, office, shop, warehouse, or any other space, the most secure option is to install a modern security system.

These days, with such extreme advancements in technology in recent years, finding the right access control company for your security can be easier said than done. To make the decision a little easier, here are some questions that you should consider when choosing the right security system for your needs, as well as the right installer in the Calgary area.

What Is Your Budget?

Ultimately, you may be restricted in your options by your budget, but security systems do come in a variety of service plans and configurations.

Nevertheless, determining your budget is a great place to start to filter your available options. It could become as simple as choosing the best system and service that your budget will allow for. That said, do try to maximize your budget on this, as this decision could directly impact the security of property and lives.

Do You Need an Access Control Security System?

Security systems can range from simple surveillance, right through to tightly controlled access security that can control and monitor who is authorized to access the premises in real-time.

Businesses, especially, require access control systems to best manage the comings and goings of multiple staff members and visitors. Multi-family buildings also need to manage individual access securities, as do some larger, perhaps more extravagant homes, especially if they employ multiple people.

Should You Get Your Security System Professionally Installed or Do It Yourself?

Setting up your own security system might not be as crazy an idea as you think, as today’s smart devices are often easier to install than ever before, and many come with DIY instructions.

That said, if you leave it to access control system installers, you have the peace of mind that everything is done optimally, and that leaves you time to best understand how the system works.

What About Wired Or Wireless?

Wired security solutions are easier to install during construction or renovation since all of the drilling and wire-laying can be done during the build.

However, the future is undoubtedly wireless, with a growing trend towards wireless security systems. These are easier to install and result in a more aesthetically pleasing finish than having wires running along walls.

Do You Need Monitoring?

Monitored security plans attract monthly fees but certainly come with enhanced protections.

A monitored system can automatically raise the alarm in emergency situations, notifying the security company, who in turn notify the relevant emergency services.

Unmonitored systems obviously don’t include these security features, but won’t cost you any monthly fees, so it mostly comes down to budget and risk calculations.

Is Mobile Device Control and Cloud Access Necessary?

Both our private and commercial spaces are becoming smarter by the day, thanks to the Internet of Things (IoT). These days, security and access control systems can be run remotely from an app on a tablet or smartphone.

The level of real-time control that mobile and cloud-based system access provides can allow you to operate and adapt access control permissions instantly, and from anywhere so long as you have access to the internet. It’s a level of flexibility that is fast becoming the standard, so if your budget allows for it, it’s well worth it for future-proofing your tech investments.

What Will Happen During a Power Outage?

A security system can offer no protection to you if it goes offline during a power outage.

Modern security systems come with rechargeable batteries that can keep things running in the event of a power outage, so be sure to check for this feature before committing to a particular system.

Tips for Looking for a Security Installer in Calgary

Once you have chosen the security system you want and have decided that you want it professionally installed, it’s time to find the right installer. Here are some tips for finding the best local installer in Calgary.

• Do your research - some security systems offer professional installation as part of the package, so check this first. If that is not the case, then diligently look through local installers’ online reviews to aid your decision.
• Ask for referrals - you can’t beat a personal recommendation when it comes to finding a quality tradesperson, so ask around to see who your trusted friends and colleagues vouch for.
• Get some quotations - requesting quotations from several installers can give you a good idea of not only what they will charge, but what level of service you could expect.

Making the Right Decision

Installing a security system can be a big investment. With technology advancing at such rapid rates, it’s important to make the right decision both in terms of your security needs, and future-proofing your system as technology continues to evolve.

Photo by Matthew Henry on Unsplash