Easy ways to upgrade your home security

Not that long ago the thought of controlling your home’s security from anywhere using a mobile device seemed like a far-fetched fantasy plucked from a sci-fi series. Recent innovations, though, have turned reactive anti-theft systems into intelligent, predictive networks that can be integrated easily into everyday living.

They no longer rely on just one or two components that leave blind spots. Instead, they’re a highly connected ecosystem, which can be assembled in just a weekend or over time.

And you don’t need to call in a professional to set it all up either. Smart phones and voicebots have made the task of automating your home security as simple as plug in and play.

Throw away the keys

A connected entrance lock is a convenient way to control who enters and leaves your home when you’re away. It doesn’t require a standard key, allowing access through PIN, RFID or fingerprint scanning. And if you lose your phone or there’s a malfunction, you can always use an override key as a backup. Phew!

Some models let you lock and unlock from anywhere using your phone, while others let you assign special access privileges to family and friends with a secure locking mode.

Pair it to an app on your phone and use your home Wi-Fi or mobile connection to control, customise and automate the lock. Go for one with a standard 54mm cutout, designed to retrofit a regular door handle or knob.

Keep an eye on things

Asking your neighbours to watch the house while you’re on holidays isn’t always practical – but installing an AI-enabled security camera is. You can keep an eye on things yourself using bionic technology and the internet.

Featuring 4k resolution and superior facial recognition software, the heaviest hitters can pick up licence plates up to 10m away and tell you whether it’s your parcel delivery person or a stranger at the door.

The perfect outdoor sentry offers night colour vision, runs on solar power and a powerful back-up battery, and has no monthly fees or contracts. For a cost-effective way to protect your entire home’s perimeter, buy a 4-pack kit.

Protect the largest entry point

Don’t forget to automate the biggest door in the house – the garage door – it will save your sanity! We’ve all done it – you’re 50km into a road trip when you realise you’ve left your roll-up open! That’s when a smart garage door controller with sensor is your best buddy. It takes minutes to set up and the cost won’t eat into your holiday savings.

Download the app or link it to Google Assistant to enable PIN-secured voice control. You’ll not only be able to open and shut the door from anywhere – letting in guests, relatives or delivery people – you’ll also know whether the door is open or closed in real time.

Knock, knock – who’s there?

If your fluffy doggo, lingering in the front yard, could make even the coldest burglar give them a treat, it’s time to smarten up. A battery-powered, 2K video doorbell that comes with enhanced motion detection and colour-night vision safeguards your doorstep and captures every detail, from am to pm.

Set it up in two shakes of doggo’s tail by connecting it to Wi-Fi through an app so you can control it remotely through your smart phone. These often come with tools for easy mounting.

You also have the choice to add extra layers of protection, including a subscription to record and review your videos, and the ability to pair it with voice-enabled devices for two-way audio communication.

Don’t be left in the dark

Improved outdoor lighting eliminates hiding spots and increases the risk of detection of unwelcome guests. But it needs to be thoughtfully situated and used as part of an integrated home security strategy.

The best smart security lighting integrates powerful motion-activated illumination with high-definition surveillance and smartphone alerts.

Safety tip: Australian standards apply to lighting and only registered electrical contractors should be engaged for any type of electrical work.

Indoors, smart illumination can instantly elevate your lifestyle. Connect floor or table lamps with colour-changing bulbs and leave the switch turned on. From there, you can control power, automate schedules and set the perfect mood with different coloured lighting through your smart phone or voice assistant – hands free!

Plug it in

Inexpensive smart plugs let you build reliable bridges between standard “dumb” appliances and smart hubs to trigger automated safety responses.

To build a strong setup, combine them with door/window sensors, motion sensors, cameras and alarm systems. For instance, a contact sensor on a side door could trigger a hallway light, a camera recording and a plug-in siren at the same time. Great teamwork!

Aside from keeping you safe, an affordable, easy-to-install D.I.Y. smart security system can help make your home a lot more automated – and very liveable.

Want to upgrade your home’s security without the need of technical expertise?

Check out all the latest smart home products and practical solutions to keep your household well connected and protected.

Frequently asked questions

What is a smart home security system?
A smart home security system connects devices like cameras, locks and sensors so you can monitor and control your home remotely using your smartphone.

Are smart home security systems easy to install?
Most smart security products are designed for D.I.Y. installation, with simple set up and app-based controls that don’t require professional help.

What devices are useful for home security?
Popular options include smart locks, security cameras, video doorbells, motion sensors, smart lighting and garage door controllers.

Can I check my home security when I’m away?
Yes, smart systems connect via Wi-Fi, allowing you to receive alerts, view live footage and control devices from anywhere.

Do smart security systems help prevent break-ins?
Visible devices like cameras and motion lighting can discourage intruders, while real-time alerts help you respond quickly to suspicious activity.