security cameras and alarms

New alarm systems not only help people keep tabs on any unusual activity at their home, but they are making everyday living more convenient. "We've also built in the home automation capabilities where now you can control your lights, control your thermostat, you can control video cameras, and view video cameras and all of those devices work together seamlessly," said Xfinity Home Vice President Dennis Mathew. Comcast began rolling out its wireless Xfinity Home system in 2012 and now is available in Comcast served area across the country. Ray Child has the system in his home, and said it helps him keep tabs on everything via his PC, tablet and smartphone. "I can't tell you how many times whether it's a trip across town or across the country where I've had that 'ah ha' moment where I didn't turn on my security system," Mathew said. "I can be driving down the road and say, 'I really want those lights on,' so I can remotely turn on the lights.

senior alert

We found Scout Alarm, SimpliSafe and abode easier to set up than most other DIY security systems.

• wireless security system home
• reviews home security systems
• which is the best home security system
• indoor cameras
• home security tips

>automated security systems

However, there is enough consumer demand to support the traditional and new business models that play in our sector.

>home security review

Some systems offer both cloud storage and local storage, and some provide a dedicated storage drive that gives you DVR capabilities with time lapse recording, which makes it easy to find a video event that took place at a specific point in time.