These Security Systems Can Watch Your Home When You Can’t.

The strategic placement of home security cameras is crucial for effective protection, as even the most advanced technology requires optimal positioning. This guide, informed by extensive testing of various smart security cameras, including wired floodlights and solar-powered models, outlines key locations for camera installation and areas to avoid. Exterior security is paramount, with the front door being a primary target for intruders, accounting for 34% of burglaries according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors. A camera here monitors all entries and exits, including family members, service personnel, and package deliveries. Video doorbells are highly recommended for this location, either as a standalone device or paired with another outdoor camera covering the yard or garage. The Blink Outdoor 4 camera is highlighted for its ease of mounting and reliability in outdoor surveillance. Secondary entry points, such as back and side doors, are also vulnerable, with 22% of break-ins occurring through back doors. Installing cameras at these entrances ensures comprehensive monitoring, especially for frequently used or easily accessible doors like those leading to a basement. The Lorex 2K Wi-Fi Floodlight is suggested for these areas, offering integrated lighting for enhanced security. Garages and driveways are common targets due to being weak entry points, often housing valuable items like bikes, tools, grills, and cars. Cameras here provide surveillance over these assets and any individuals interacting with them. For detached garages, cameras help maintain connectivity, while for attached garages, they add an extra layer of security against potential home intrusions. A wide field of view (at least 130 degrees) is recommended to capture broad areas, including gates or shed doorways if present. Blink also offers an affordable smart floodlight cam option for garages. Broad yard views are essential for monitoring suspicious activities, trespassers, children, and pets. Cameras with a wide field of view are beneficial, particularly if they can cover yard entrances like fence gates. The article emphasizes that visible cameras act as a deterrent. Interior surveillance should focus on common areas like kitchens and living rooms to monitor activities, whether it's children, babysitters, pets, or household help. Rooms with large ground-floor windows should be prioritized to detect tampering or break-ins. Key points of interest, such as sofas or pet beds, should be within the camera's view. Placing cameras in main thoroughfares, such as stairways or hallways, makes it difficult for intruders to move around undetected, even if they enter through an unmonitored area like a bathroom or bedroom. When selecting indoor cameras, privacy shields are recommended to mitigate the risk of hackers accessing sensitive footage. Conversely, certain areas should be avoided for camera placement. These include locations that infringe upon neighbors' privacy, as homeowners need to be mindful of neighborhood privacy laws, although capturing public-facing property in the background is generally acceptable. Bedrooms and bathrooms are strictly off-limits due to warranted expectations of privacy and the risk of hacking. Alternatives like baby monitors, motion detectors, glass break sensors, and personal medical alert systems are suggested for monitoring vulnerable individuals. Practical tips for outdoor camera installation include mounting cameras 8 to 10 feet from the ground for optimal detail capture and thief deterrence. Cameras should not be pointed directly at the sun to avoid glare, and their placement should consider the sun's movement. Protection from the elements is crucial, with appropriate weather-rated cameras and placement under eaves. Avoiding areas close to growing branches or bushes prevents future obstructions. Crucially, visible cameras serve as a deterrent. For indoor cameras, corners offer the widest vantage points, and placing cameras on shelves provides versatility for adjustments or relocation. Windows can cause reflection issues, especially with infrared light technology, potentially obscuring footage in the dark. Indirect lighting should be sought to prevent washed-out footage from lamps, fixtures, or bright windows. Video doorbells require specific placement, typically around 4 feet from the base of the front door, angled outward, especially in tight spaces, to maximize activity capture. Many models come with wedges for this purpose. For those needing portable security, battery-powered indoor/outdoor cams like the Ring Stick-Up Cam Pro or Google Nest Indoor/Outdoor Cam are recommended for their versatility and weather resistance. Additional resources cover preventing camera hacking and finding affordable home security systems. #HomeSecurity #SecurityCameras #SmartHome #HomeProtection #Surveillance #InstallationTips #PrivacyConcerns #OutdoorSecurity #IndoorSecurity

This comprehensive guide reviews the best smart locks available on the market, based on extensive expert testing by BGR product reviewers. Smart locks offer significant convenience and enhanced security for any home, providing notifications when doors are opened and offering various unlocking methods. The article presents a curated list of top models, detailing their features, advantages, and limitations. The eufy Security Smart Lock S230 is highlighted as the best overall choice due to its versatility, sleek weatherproof design, and easy installation. It supports multiple unlocking methods, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, PIN codes, and fingerprint scans, with an impressive one-year battery life. The primary drawback identified is its limited color options, only available in black metal. The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock is recognized for its exceptionally easy installation, integrating seamlessly with existing deadbolts. This lock offers a convenient auto-unlock feature that senses the user's proximity via their phone, and it allows for sharing temporary or permanent digital keys through its app. Although the app's interface is noted as a minor drawback and battery life could be improved, its ability to attach to existing hardware and biometric verification options make it a strong contender. The Yale Assure Lock SL stands out as the best touchscreen option, featuring a sleek, key-free design with a backlit keypad. It offers extensive smart home integration capabilities, connecting with popular voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Home, and platforms such as SmartThings, Philips Hue, and Apple HomeKit. This allows for automated unlocking and remote control. The lock is BHMA Grade 2-certified, motorized, and quiet, enabling the creation of digital keys. A minor con is the clunky nature of its accompanying app. The Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt is praised for its variety in styles, allowing users to customize their lock, knob, or lever with different colors and finishes, although some designs are considered dated. It is compatible with Z-Wave Plus and Zigbee smart home systems and is easy to install. The lock includes a built-in alarm for potential door attacks and allows for up to 30 access codes, with a fingerprint-resistant keypad. However, some users have reported issues with its connectivity reliability. Finally, the ULTRALOQ U-Bolt Pro is presented as the most versatile option, offering seven different ways to unlock: fingerprint, PIN code, smartphone app, auto-unlock, shake to open, and a mechanical key. It features an anti-peep keypad for enhanced security and automatic locking/unlocking. The lock is IP65-rated for dust and weather resistance and includes a microUSB port for emergency power. A separate Wi-Fi bridge is required for full Wi-Fi connectivity. Each recommendation provides a balanced overview of the product's strengths and weaknesses, assisting consumers in making an informed decision about integrating smart lock technology into their homes. #SmartLocks #HomeSecurity #SmartHome #TechReview #KeylessEntry #HomeAutomation #AccessControl #GadgetGuide #ProductTesting

Smart locks are a crucial component of a connected home, offering enhanced convenience and security for entryways. These devices allow users to lock and unlock doors through various methods, including keypads, mobile apps, and fingerprint scanners. They also provide monitoring capabilities, tracking who enters and leaves the home, even when the homeowner is away. Some advanced models offer features like voice command integration and compatibility with third-party smart home systems. When considering a smart lock, several factors come into play. Cost is a primary consideration, with prices ranging from around $100 for basic models to over $200 for those with integrated Wi-Fi, voice command support, and advanced notification features. Most smart locks come with a companion mobile app that facilitates remote locking/unlocking, user management for permanent or temporary access, and scheduled access times. Activity logs are also a common feature, allowing users to review entry and exit history. Connectivity is a key differentiator. Bluetooth-enabled locks require proximity (within about 30 feet) for control, while Wi-Fi-enabled locks or those using a Wi-Fi bridge offer remote access from virtually anywhere. Voice commands via mobile apps enhance convenience. Newer smart locks incorporate facial or palm recognition for keyless entry and geofencing, which can automatically lock the door when a user leaves a defined perimeter. Time-based auto-locking ensures the door is secured if left unlocked for a specified duration. Additional features include touchpads for manual entry, tamper and forced entry alarms, and real-time push, text, or email notifications. While generally considered safe, smart locks, like any internet-connected device, carry inherent security risks. Measures to mitigate these risks include securing Wi-Fi networks with strong passwords, applying firmware updates promptly, and enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA). Most smart locks are battery-powered, ensuring functionality during power outages. Many Wi-Fi-enabled locks also feature Bluetooth for local app control if Wi-Fi is unavailable. The presence of a physical key slot provides an additional layer of backup against lockouts. Leading smart lock brands, based on review ratings, include Ultraloq, Lockly, and August, with other reputable brands like Aqara, Eufy, Igloohome, Kwikset, Proscenic, and Yale also offering strong options. However, it's important to evaluate individual models rather than relying solely on brand reputation, as performance can vary widely within a brand's product line. Installation of smart locks is generally not overly complex, with some models being suitable for renters. Full-replacement locks require removing the existing deadbolt mechanism, while retrofit options often attach to the inside of the door, utilizing existing hardware. Installation typically takes 10 to 25 minutes. Conversion kits, like the SwitchBot Lock, can also add smart features to existing hardware, though some may require a separate hub for full functionality. Smart locks can integrate with other smart home devices and services such as Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, IFTTT, and Matter. This integration allows for advanced home automation, such as unlocking doors in response to smoke alarms or turning on smart lights upon entry. Connectivity with video doorbells enables visual verification before unlocking, and integration with indoor security cameras can trigger recording when a door is unlocked. Beyond traditional door locks, the market also includes smart padlocks, like the Igloohome Smart Padlock 2, and secure delivery boxes, such as the Yale Smart Delivery Box, which offer similar connectivity and security features for specific applications. #SmartLock #HomeSecurity #SmartHome #KeylessEntry #HomeAutomation #Connectivity #EntrywaySecurity #TechReview

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has heightened awareness about hygiene, particularly regarding frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to install a hands-free entry system for your front door, combining a push-to-open doorknob with a smart lock that features automatic locking and unlocking capabilities. This setup allows individuals to enter their homes without making physical contact with the doorknob, thereby reducing germ transmission. The first step involves selecting a suitable push-to-open doorknob. The Brink’s Push Pull Rotate is recommended, as it is widely available and compatible with various smart locks. It comes in different configurations, including round, lever, and decorative handlesets, ranging in price from $20 to $160. The choice depends on personal style and finish preferences, as all versions can integrate with a smart lock. Next, choosing the right smart lock is crucial. The market offers two main types: regular and retrofit. Regular smart locks necessitate replacing the entire existing lock, including the deadbolt. In contrast, retrofit smart locks allow the existing deadbolt to remain in place, making installation generally easier. However, retrofit smart locks are exclusively compatible with deadbolts, not mortise locks, which are typically found in most residential homes. Consumer Reports' testing highlights the August Smart Lock + Connect ($200) and August Smart Lock Pro + Connect ($280) as high-performing retrofit models. These locks received excellent ratings for ease of setup and connectivity. The Pro model offers additional compatibility with Apple HomeKit and Z-Wave smart home hubs. For those preferring to replace the entire lock, the Yale Assure YRD256 Connected by August ($300) is a viable option. These smart locks are controlled via the August smartphone app and incorporate auto-unlock features that sense the proximity of a smartphone to unlock the door, along with door sensors to indicate if the door is left open. The installation process begins with the doorknob. This involves removing the old doorknob by unscrewing the rose and detaching both knobs. The new Brink’s Push Pull Rotate knob or handleset is then installed according to its instructions. Key considerations during this step include accurately measuring the door's width (typically 1 ⅜ or 1 ¾ inches) and the backset of the knob hole (distance from door edge to hole center). These measurements determine the correct retractor and latch to use, ensuring proper fit and function. The latch's sloping face must point towards the strike plate for effective closure. Following the doorknob, the smart lock is installed. For August retrofit smart locks, this entails removing the existing deadbolt's thumb turn and mounting plate. The retrofit smart lock’s mounting plate is then screwed into place, with an adapter attached to the deadbolt's rod. The smart lock unit is then secured onto this adapter. Precision is important during this step; for elongated smart locks like the August models, using a level to ensure the lock is perfectly straight is essential for smooth deadbolt operation. An additional recommendation for enhanced security is to replace the standard strike plate with a box strike plate, fastened with 3-inch screws, which significantly improves resistance against forced entry. The final step involves configuring the smart lock's features via its smartphone app. After downloading the app, creating an account, and setting up the lock, the auto-lock and auto-unlock function should be enabled. This feature utilizes Bluetooth and the phone’s location services to automatically unlock the door upon arrival and lock it upon departure, requiring only the phone to be present. Further customization, such as setting a timed automatic lock after a few minutes, is also possible. With both the push-to-open doorknob and smart lock installed and configured, the front door can be opened hands-free, enhancing convenience and hygiene. Two recommended retrofit smart locks from CR's tests are the August Smart Lock + Connect and the August Smart Lock Pro + Connect, with the Yale Assure YRD256 Connected by August also mentioned for full lock replacement scenarios. #SmartHome #DoorSecurity #HomeImprovement #HandsFreeEntry #SmartLocks #HomeHygiene #DIYInstallation #ConsumerReports