The best smart security devices for your business

Whether you want a simple smart lock or a comprehensive security system, these high-tech products will help keep your home or business safe.

The internet of things has changed everything. But not just on your computer. Our homes and businesses are now interconnected too, with simple-to-control devices making life easier and more intuitive, helping you control everything from lighting to entertainment.

Security systems are no different.

Gone are the days of bulky cameras, grainy black-and-white footage and expensive ongoing fees for security company monitoring. The new generation of security system operates over your wireless networks, giving you agility, ease of control and glorious high-definition footage.

All connected straight to your smartphone, tablet or computer.

Here’s the low-down on what security systems are available to you as a business owner, and which ones will do the job of keeping both you and your empire safe.

Using a physical key is so 20^th century.

When you’re looking to combine convenience with security, a smart lock is the way to go. These innovative, connected devices give you the choice of opening your door via keycode, fingerprint or phone.

Many models can alert you whenever your door is locked or unlocked, which is perfect for giving you peace of mind. Now instead of worrying all night about whether you closed the front door properly as you were leaving work, you can simply check the logs on your phone.

Some of our favourite products from this category include:

Samsung Smart IoT Wi-Fi Digital Doorlock

The first thing you’ll probably notice about this lock is its sleek look, which has won its share of design awards around the world.

But it’s not just a pretty face.

In fact, this smart lock is one the most impressive we’ve seen, with features galore. You can even lock and unlock your door from anywhere in the world with your phone (perfect if the intern forgets their keycode and needs to get in while you’re on holiday).

You also get real-time notifications of when the door is opened and closed, and you can view an activity log to see who’s been coming and going.

It feels like everything about this smart lock has been carefully considered: before you enter your passcode, it even asks you to press two random numbers – therefore making it impossible for nefarious types to guess your code by looking at what numbers have been worn down. Genius.

Eufy Security Wi-Fi Smart Lock Touch

There’s also plenty to love about this lock, which, at around $400—500 is a little more budget-friendly than the Samsung model above.

Don’t let its price fool you though, this lock is still jam-packed with handy features.

If your lock is connected to your Wi-Fi setup, you can lock and unlock it from up to 200 metres away using your smartphone. Alternatively, you can also use your phone’s Bluetooth connection to unlock the door as you approach it.

And if you forget to lock up, don’t stress: this clever device has an internal sensor that can detect when the door is closed, then lock it automatically behind you. It’s also got in-built support for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, and you can even use physical keys if you want to have a real-world backup.

Lockly Secure Pro Latch Edition 

If you’re looking for security on a budget, it’s hard to go wrong with this offering from Lockly. Coming in at around $400, it packs in plenty of the features you find in more expensive models.

It’s a breeze to install, and replacing your existing deadbolt is a 15-minute, one-person job.

When it comes to security features, it offers a keypad that randomly shuffles numbers to prevent codes being guessed, and biometric 3D fingerprint access that prevents would-be thieves simply using flat images of fingerprints to gain access.

Plus, with the Lockly app, you remotely lock and unlock – or simply check the door’s status – from anywhere in the world. Bet your old deadbolt couldn’t do that! 
 

Having the right smart lock will only get you so far. It’s also important to have a comprehensive, connected security system to provide overwatch and peace of mind.

These high-tech devices give you the ability to monitor the cameras yourself, and will automatically alert you to potential breaches. And, should the worst-case scenario happen, you’ll also have video evidence of the baddies to hand over to police.

Swann Enforcer Security System

Thieves beware! This security system comes with eight cameras, all capable of recording with 4K HD. They also boast powerful night vision and have sensor lights that trip when they detect movement. In addition to detecting motion, these cameras can also detect heat, making them able to pick up more potential intruders.

For instant deterrence, we’re fans of the flashing red and blue lights, spotlights and sirens that are sure to stop unwanted guests from advancing any further. These can be triggered automatically when motion is detected, or manually via the app.

Plus, if a burglary does occur, a two-terabyte hard drive can store months of footage before it begins to overwrite. And you can also back up your files to Dropbox or USB stick.

At around $1400, the only real downside to this system is the cost – especially if your business is small and you don’t need eight cameras to oversee it.

Arlo Essential 4 Camera Kit

This set of four cameras are wire-free and super simple to install, with their price – at around $800 – making them a great solution when you need several cameras to cover your business.

The cameras themselves are sturdy and waterproof, yet still sleek and modern – making them versatile enough to use both indoors and outdoors.  They broadcast in 1080p, which means you can keep a watchful eye in HD, and the battery lasts for six months before you need to recharge.

You’ll receive alerts on your phone when the camera detects motion – it even sends you a picture of what’s set the camera off. From there you can set off an in-built siren, Or, if you prefer a more personal touch, you can also use two-way audio to directly speak to them. 

However, one thing to note with this system is that it doesn’t come with an on-site hard drive. Instead, this records 30 days of footage directly to the cloud, and requires an Arlo Smart subscription to do so (which is an additional cost to factor in).

eufy 2C Wire-Free HD Security Cam with Home Base

If you only need a couple of cameras, this is a fantastic basic option – around $400 – that still offers the features you’d expect from a connected security system. The twin weather-proof cameras broadcast in crisp and clear 1080p with an 135^O field of view, allowing you to see more of what’s going on around your business.

As with other models, this system’s detection system notifies you whenever it catches sight of something suspicious. The footage is backed up on 16 gigs of local storage. And while that’s not as much as other models, it’s more than enough to record and download footage of any intrusions.

There’s no point having a top-of-the-range system if your internet connection isn’t fast and reliable. Check out our great range of 5G business plans to prepare your business for the security tools of the future.