Serving Central Pennsylvania and Upstate New York
What Is Alarm.com and How Does it Work?
If you’ve been looking into a modern security system, you’ve probably comeacross the name Alarm.com. But what exactly is Alarm.com, and how does it differ from a traditional alarm system?
Alarm.com is a technology platform thatconnects your security system to your home or business, allowing you to monitor and control more than just your alarm from your phone or computer.
Crossley Media Group is now an Alarm.com dealer, allowing us to offer Alarm.com-powered security solutions to customers in Williamsport, Lycoming County, and surrounding areas of North-Central Pennsylvania.
What Can Alarm.com Do?
An Alarm.com system can combine several different security and automation features into one connected system.
Depending on the equipment installed, you can have:
Intrusion and burglar alarms
Smoke, fire, and carbon monoxide detection
Monitored Security cameras and video surveillance
Smart locks and access control
Garage door control
Thermostats and temperature monitoring
Water leak and freeze detection
Mobile notifications and remote system control
Instead of having separate systems and apps for each of these functions, Alarm.com is designed to bring them together.
How Does an Alarm.com Security System Work?
The Alarm.com platform works with compatible security panels and devices installed at your property.
For example, a system may use equipment from manufacturers such as 2GIG, DSC, or Qolsys/IQ, depending on the application and system requirements.
Sensors throughout the property communicate with the security panel. The panel then communicates with the Alarm.com service, allowing you to receive notifications and interact with your system remotely.
For example, if a door is opened while your system is armed, you could receive a notification on your phone. Depending on the equipment installed, you may also be able to view cameras, unlock a door, adjust a thermostat, or check the status of your system remotely.
What Happens If the Internet Goes Down?
One advantage of a professionally installed security system is that it doesn’t necessarily depend entirely on your normal internet connection.
Alarm.com-compatible systems can use cellular communication to maintain a connection with the monitoring service, as well as having backup batteries. The exact communication method depends on the equipment and service configuration.
This can provide an additional layer of reliability compared with a security system that only communicates through your home’s or business’s internet connection.
Can Alarm.com Work With an Existing Alarm System?
Most of the time, yes. However, whether an existing alarm system can be upgraded depends on the panel, sensors, wiring, and other equipment already installed.
In some cases, an existing system can be upgraded rather than completely replaced. In other situations, replacing the control panel and some equipment may provide a better long-term solution.
Crossley Media Group can evaluate an existing system and help determine what options are available.
Alarm.com for Homes and Businesses
Alarm.com isn’t limited to residential security systems. The platform can also be used for commercial applications.
For a business, an integrated system can provide features such as:
Employee access and smart locks
Commercial security cameras
Door and window monitoring
Remote alarm control
Business-hour automation
Video verification
Notifications when employees arrive or leave
Water and environmental monitoring
The right equipment depends on the property and what you’re trying to accomplish.
Why Work With a Local Alarm.com Dealer?
Buying security equipment online is easy, but installing and configuring a complete security system involves more than choosing a control panel.
A local dealer can evaluate the property, determine appropriate sensor and camera placement, install the equipment, configure the system, and provide ongoing support.
At Crossley Media Group, we provide security and technology services throughout Central Pennsylvania and Upstate New York. Areas include: Williamsport, South Williamsport, Montoursville, Lycoming County, and surrounding areas.
If you’re considering a new alarm system, upgrading an existing system, or adding features such as cameras, smart locks, or environmental monitoring, contact us to discuss what options make sense for your property.
