The Best Business Security Solutions of 2024
We recommend choosing ADT for its custom-built solutions, multiple cybersecurity solutions, and voice command capabilities.
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Last Updated on Jun 28, 2024
- Custom-built systems for every business
- Available cybersecurity options protect you and your customers
- Voice commands improve business efficiency
- Scalable system covers businesses large and small
- Professional monitoring protects your business even after hours
- Optional emergency button in case of robbery
- Protect company vehicles with Vivint’s auto security
- Look out for shoplifting with continuous recording options
- White glove installation service specifically designed for business customers
It goes without saying that every business needs a working security solution. But many business owners don’t know what their options are, let alone what the best solution is for their business. And who could blame them? Business security isn’t as straightforward as home security.
If you’re one of those business owners who are struggling to find a good security solution, we’ll give you five simple options in this guide. Some of these options are designed for businesses, while others are home security systems more-than-qualified to provide business security. The bottom line is that no matter the size and nature of your business, you have plenty of options to choose from. So let’s take a look at our top picks.
Arming the ADT System>> Related: How Much Does a Security System Cost?
Our Top Recommendations for Business Security
- ADT - Personalized Security for Small and Large Businesses
- SimpliSafe - Affordable Business Security Solution
- Vivint - High-End Security for Small and Large Businesses
- Frontpoint - DIY Security for Small Businesses
- Lorex - Robust Security Camera Systems for Businesses of Any Size
What Is a Good Business Security Solution?
There are no hard-and-fast rules for choosing a security system. That’s true when it comes to choosing a me security system, and it’s also true for business security. Every establishment is unique. What works for a hotel might not work for a warehouse. So the main thing you should look for is flexibility. Your security solution should be able to adapt to your business’ unique needs.
Here are three things to consider to narrow down your options when looking for the right security solution for your business:
- Type of system: In the same way there are security systems for renters and security systems for homeowners, there are different solutions for small businesses, large businesses, and enterprises.
- Cost: Business security costs can vary widely depending on factors such as equipment, monitoring services, and features. Security cameras, for example, require video storage, which can raise the overall cost.
- How to set up: If you’re running a small operation, it might make sense to opt for DIY installation, skipping professional installation costs. If you have a larger business though, you might want to consider professional installation to make sure all areas are covered.
>> See Also: DIY vs. Professional Security System Installation
After narrowing down your options, the next step is to compare the security systems. We won’t do the comparison for you, because you know your business better than anyone. We will, however, give you the facts by highlighting the type of equipment each service provider offers and what monitoring options are available.
Business Security Systems Compared
| System |
ADT
|
SimpliSafe
|
Vivint
|
Frontpoint
|
Lorex
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ranking | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | 5th |
| Ratings | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.6/10 |
| For small businesses | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| For large businesses | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| Consultation | Yes | Online quiz only | Yes | Yes | No |
| Installation type | Professional | Professional or DIY | Professional | DIY | DIY |
| Monitoring type | Professional | Professional or DIY | Professional | Professional | DIY |
| Security cameras | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Video verification | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Cloud video storage | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 24/7 video recording | No | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| Price range | Varies depending on security needs | Starting at $289 for a basic system | Varies depending on security needs | Varies depending on security needs | Starting at $300 for a basic system |
| Read Review | ADT Review | SimpliSafe Review | Vivint Review | Frontpoint Review | Lorex Review |
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1. ADT - Personalized Security for Small and Large Businesses
Product Specs
Equipment Costs Packages starting at $599 Monitoring Options Professional Monthly Monitoring Costs Starting at $25 per month Contract Lengths 36 months and up Installation Options Professional Smart Platform Integration Alexa and Google Home Type of Security Solution
ADT used to offer all its business security solutions under one roof, ADT Commercial, but it has been divided into two separate operations. ADT’s business security for small businesses remains under ADT, but its commercial offering is now called Everon and is under the management of the Chicago-based company GTCR.1
Everon offers a broader range of products and services. For example, it offers physical security and cybersecurity solutions. It also offers live video monitoring, security guard response, managed access control, and so much more. If your organization consists of multiple branches, we strongly suggest going straight to Everon to find out which options are available.
As for the ADT managed business security solution, it’s best suited for small and medium-sized businesses. It doesn’t offer as many features as Everon, but compared to SimpliSafe (#2 on this list), ADT’s protection is far more advanced. We saw additional features we didn’t see from SimpliSafe, like continuous video recording and automated access control.
Closeup of the ADT Outdoor Camera Cost
It’s no secret that ADT is not the most affordable home security system, but you’ll find that ADT’s pricing is fair enough for a small business. In fact, we found ADT’s pricing for small businesses to be just a tad higher than their home security prices. That’s not always the case for companies that offer home and business security solutions.
So how much exactly does an ADT business security cost? Well, it all depends on your final equipment, but when we inquired about a basic business solution, ADT quoted us $500 to $700 for the equipment and about $60 per month for monitoring. That’s a competitive price, considering that a similar package from Vivint can cost upwards of $800.
How to Set Up
One of ADT’s major selling points is its adaptability. You won’t have to go with a packaged solution that may or may not fit your business exactly. Instead, you can customize your security solution.
When we inquired about business security systems, ADT explained that it starts with a consultation with an ADT Security Specialist. It’s free and comes with no obligation to sign up, but you will have to set aside time for an in-person meeting and assessment. We went through with it and a specialist named Sharon paid us a visit, diligently scouted our office, and pitched a 30-minute presentation. A day later, she sent us a list of equipment we might need.
We liked that ADT let us take the driver’s seat. While Sharon tried to convince us that we needed all the equipment she recommended, she stepped aside when we insisted we didn’t want access control. After that, we signed an agreement and finalized the paperwork.
Professional installation came after as the final step. A team of technicians brought our new ADT equipment and installed it in our office. The service wasn’t free; it was part of the fee we paid upfront. But, we liked their professionalism and the convenience of getting to sit back while they outfitted our office with sensors and cameras.
>> Learn More: The Best Professionally Installed Security Systems
What We Like
- Personalized solutions for each business
- Free professional consultation
- High-quality installation and monitoring service
- Company has a great reputation with over 100 years of experience
What We Don’t Like
- May be more expensive than other options
- Requires a contract
- Can’t be self-monitored
- Lack of pricing transparency online
ADT Equipment
Much like its home security systems, ADT’s business security systems are built on security and safety sensors: entry sensors (aka door sensors), motion sensors, glass-break sensors, smoke alarms, and more.
ADT Security Smoke Detector We also received security cameras, but we were surprised that they gave us ADT-branded cameras instead of Google Nest Cams typically offered as ADT home security cameras. Nest Cams are more high-tech since they offer facial recognition and person detection, but Sharon told us that ADT-branded cameras are more suitable for business because they can record 24/7 via an on-site DVR. Nest Cams, on the other hand, only record to the cloud when their sensors are triggered.
She wasn’t wrong; continuous video recording is crucial for businesses. Businesses need security cameras that can provide footage of any incident, not just break-ins. For example, if a customer claims they got the wrong order, received poor service, etc., you want to be able to check your recordings to verify. Typical home security cameras like Nest Cams are not built for that. So overall, we were happy with the ADT equipment we received.
ADT Monitoring Options
Professional monitoring comes standard with ADT, both for residential and business accounts. It’s actually one of ADT’s strongest points. Its network of monitoring facilities leaves little room for error. It has nine monitoring facilities around the United States, and each building is equipped with backup generators, servers, and communication lines to make sure they can run 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
There were also a couple of advanced video monitoring features we didn’t add to our system that might come handy for you:
- Video escort: With a quick phone call, high-level employees and executives will be monitored via a live video link to ensure their safety as they enter or leave your business.
- Video guard tours: Virtual security guards perform a remote tour of your facility to look for suspicious activity and conditions at set intervals, based on your instructions.
ADT has been in business for well over 100 years — longer than any other security company in the market.2 It uses its experience and knowledge to provide businesses and homes the security they deserve.
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2. SimpliSafe - Affordable Business Security Solution
Product Specs
Equipment Costs Packages starting at $280 Monitoring Options Professional and DIY Monthly Monitoring Costs $19.99 per month Contract Lengths Month-to-month Installation Options DIY or professional Smart Platform Integration Alexa and Google Home Type of Security Solution
SimpliSafe is one of the loudest names in the home security space, but it’s also offering business security systems. It even has business-themed equipment packages like “The Business Essentials” and “The Storefront System.” But the truth is, the equipment SimpliSafe offers to businesses isn’t really different from its home security systems.
We’ve tested SimpliSafe in a residential setting, and while we think it’s one of the best home security systems for any size homes, we don’t believe it’s capable of protecting large enterprises. The base station can handle up to 100 sensors, so the size of the property is no problem. It’s the features that are lacking. SimpliSafe cameras don’t offer continuous recording; there are no options for access control; and the security sensors don’t go much beyond motion, entry, and glass break detection. SimpliSafe is best for smaller businesses.
SimpliSafe Equipment >> Related: The Best DIY Security Systems (SimpliSafe at No. 1)
Cost
Because it doesn’t offer as many features and options as ADT, SimpliSafe is much more affordable. We were able to buy a SimpliSafe home security system starting at $250 (hub and keypad, one motion sensor, one entry sensor). For businesses, the most basic package is slightly more expensive at $280, but it includes more pieces of equipment. The Business Essentials package comes with a hub and keypad, three entry sensors, and one motion sensor. It’s similar to and costs the same as the Beacon package for homes.
Professional monitoring is also optional with SimpliSafe. You can use it as a no-monthly-fee security system, but we highly recommend professional monitoring because it’s affordable and includes much-needed features such as video verification (which speeds up police response)3, cloud video storage, and Live Guard. We’ll discuss all these later on, but you can get those features for $29.99 per month. You’ll notice that’s not any different from its pricing for home monitoring.
How to Set Up
As a DIY system, you can buy SimpliSafe equipment online and install it yourself. You won’t have to go through a lengthy consultation or sit through a demonstration by a sales representative. You’re completely in the driver’s seat.
The same is true when it comes to monitoring. Professional monitoring is not required. You can monitor your business all on your own with the help of SimpliSafe sensors and cameras.
In our experience, SimpliSafe is easy to install. It took less than 30 minutes from unboxing to system test the last time we installed one, and that included the installation of SimpliSafe security cameras.
>> Further Reading: How to Install Security Cameras
What We Like
- Affordable equipment and monitoring
- Video verification feature
- User-friendly buying and setup process
- Professional monitoring is optional, but highly recommended
What We Don’t Like
- Limited security camera options
- Recordings are stored in the cloud only
- No option for 24/7 continuous video recording
- Not for large businesses
SimpliSafe Equipment
SimpliSafe doesn’t offer as many types of equipment as ADT, but it has everything a business needs for basic protection. It has motion sensors, door and window sensors, and glass-break sensors for detecting intrusion, security cameras for video monitoring, and emergency buttons as a way to get help quickly. It can also monitor for fire and other safety emergencies. If you’re looking for a shortcut, SimpliSafe has ready-made packages for businesses.
SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera The recently released Smart Alarm indoor camera is particularly useful to businesses. When paired with the Fast Protect monitoring plan ($29.99), alerts from the camera go straight to SimpliSafe’s monitoring center for live guard response. An agent from SimpliSafe will be able to see, talk to, and possibly deter a would-be burglar.
The downside of SimpliSafe is that it’s not as customizable as ADT. The DIY aspect gives you certain freedoms to choose your own equipment and style of monitoring, but it’s primarily a home security system. You can customize it for a small shop, restaurant, or warehouse, but it will be hard to manage, for example, if your business requires employees to come in at different hours.
SimpliSafe Monitoring
For monitoring, SimpliSafe offers three options: a no-monthly-fee self-monitoring option where you’ll do all the work, a standard professional monitoring option ($19.99 per month), and a premium professional monitoring option called Fast Protect ($29.99 per month). We recommend the last one.
Fast Protect comes with a lot of premium features, such as Live Guard. It also offers video verification for all other SimpliSafe cameras, such as the SimpliCam indoor camera we tested or the SimpliSafe Outdoor Camera Pro. With video verification, monitoring agents will be able to access your video feeds and recordings to see what went down. They will then relay it to emergency responders (police, fire, etc.) to possibly speed up alarm response. Unlike the Live Guard feature, though, they won’t be able to use two-way audio to speak through the cameras’ speakers.
Aside from that, Fast Protect includes access to the SimpliSafe app, cloud video storage for up to 10 cameras, and integrations with Alexa and Google Assistant.
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3. Vivint - High-End Security for Small and Large Businesses
Product Specs
Equipment costs Starting at $449 Monitoring options Professional Monthly monitoring costs $40 per month Contract lengths Starting at 42 months Installation options Professional Smart platform integration Alexa and Google Home Type of Security Solution
Vivint is the middle ground between ADT and SimpliSafe. It’s kind of like ADT because it requires professional installation and monitoring. But like SimpliSafe, it offers the same types of equipment to businesses and homes.
We believe Vivint is much better suited for large businesses than SimpliSafe, though. We’ve tested Vivint in our home and saw that it has the potential for commercial security. For example, its line of indoor and outdoor cameras provide advanced security through A.I. The Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro alone can be a powerful tool for keeping criminals at bay. It can detect lurkers and it has an automatic warning system that uses sounds and light to drive away potential threats.
Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro >> Learn More: Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro Review
Cost
Given the quality of Vivint’s products, however, expect to pay a higher fee for a Vivint security system. The Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro mentioned above, for example, costs nearly $400 per unit. The typical price of an outdoor camera is somewhere in the $120 to $200 range. That’s how much difference there can be between Vivint and the industry’s typical pricing. Expect to pay around $800 to $1,000 for a Vivint system, but, again, it all depends on what equipment you ultimately decide on.
Vivint is an excellent option if you’re looking for a high-end business security solution. Its cameras use artificial intelligence to improve alerts, so even if you don’t experience a break-in, Vivint can detect potential lurkers casing your business at night. That level of smart security is what Vivint customers pay for.
How to Set Up
Vivint means business. The company’s security solutions start with a professional assessment from a security expert and culminate with professional installation — all white-glove service from start to finish.
When we had a Vivint system installed at home, a licensed technician did the job. He was well dressed and arrived on time, and he clearly knew the Vivint system inside and out. He gave us useful pointers, such as where to best place sensors and cameras, and he hung around after the installation to explain how the system worked. That’s all part of Vivint’s premium service.
>> More Information: Where to Place Security Cameras
What We Like
- Advanced security camera features
- Highly rated and user-friendly mobile apps
- Integrates well with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Great quality installation service
What We Don’t Like
- More expensive than most options
- Long-term contracts
- Lack of pricing transparency on the website
- Professional monitoring and installation are mandatory
Vivint Equipment
Vivint business security systems consist of three types of equipment: security sensors, security cameras, and Car Guard.
Vivint Entry Doorway Sensor Vivint’s cameras are top of the line. The options are the Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro and Indoor Camera Pro, which share many features. They use artificial intelligence to improve detection, and have clear 1080p HD video powered by a 4K image sensor, HDR, and clear two-way audio. They also each come with a microSD card slot for local storage, a rarity in security system cameras these days. They can also, of course, record to the cloud. They are some of the most expensive indoor and outdoor cameras you can buy, but their A.I. features could prove valuable when placed at your storefront.
As for Car Guard, it’s a monitoring device that plugs into any modern vehicle’s OBD2 port. Consider getting Car Guard if your business uses transport vehicles, since it’s equipped with a GPS tracker, vehicle diagnostics, and disturbance detectors (e.g. dings while parked). It has a 4G/LTE connection, which it uses to generate alerts and inform users about the status of their vehicles.
>> Related: What to Do If Your Car Is Broken Into
Vivint Monitoring
Vivint requires a professional monitoring plan to go along with its equipment, similar to ADT. And, much like ADT, Vivint doesn’t openly advertise its pricing for business security monitoring. For your reference, home security monitoring plans when we tested Vivint ranged from $40 to $50 per month. The more expensive plans included 30-day cloud video recording for up to four cameras, but recording for additional cameras cost extra. That’s one thing to keep in mind with Vivint: The more pieces of equipment you have, the more you’ll pay each month.
As for the service itself, we were quite satisfied with Vivint’s home security monitoring and we don’t see any reason it wouldn’t be the same for businesses. It has fast response times (less than 30 seconds in our testing), the apps were nearly flawless, and we received premium customer support when we needed it.
>> Related: Vivint FAQs
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4. Frontpoint - DIY Security for Small Businesses
Product Specs
Equipment Costs Starting at $99 Monitoring Options Professional only Monthly Monitoring Costs Starting at $49.99 Contract Lengths 1-36 months Installation Options DIY Smart Platform Integration Alexa and Google Home Type of Security Solution
Frontpoint is a favorite for protecting homes and small businesses with trustworthy security systems. The company has a reputation for friendly service, straightforward pricing, and dependable equipment. It can support business security, safety monitoring, and building automation with Z-Wave hubs and professional monitoring. Each Frontpoint system uses cellular communication and can have Wi-Fi backup.
The system itself may remind you of ADT’s offerings, but one key difference is that Frontpoint is a DIY system. That’s why we nominate it for small businesses, but it’s not necessarily ideal if you’re monitoring a sprawling property. With DIY labor, you can guard a small business with Frontpoint in an hour or less.
Frontpoint Security System >> Learn More: ADT vs. Frontpoint
Cost
You’d be hard pressed to find a more affordable business security solution than Frontpoint. There’s SimpliSafe, of course, but with more equipment options, Frontpoint is more on the level of ADT and Vivint, but with more competitive pricing.
We’ve tested Frontpoint only as a home security system, but since the business security system offers the same types of equipment, the pricing may not be too far off. Frontpoint pricing for home security systems starts at $129 for a basic kit and can range up to $419 if you include security cameras and smart home equipment. That’s way cheaper than the quotes we got from ADT and Vivint.
How to Set Up
Unlike Frontpoint’s home security systems, you can’t just buy a business security system. It takes a similar approach to ADT, wherein you have to speak to an expert to get a quote. The difference is that you’ll be doing the installation yourself, but Frontpoint provides helpful guides in the form of videos and articles.
Frontpoint’s customer service is among the best in the industry. When we tested the system, we called in and got through to its support line at 8 p.m. Not a lot of alarm companies offer support past normal business hours, so props to Frontpoint for that.
As for the actual installation process, it was super simple. The system was 100 percent wireless, so all we had to do was set up and connect all the components. It took less than an hour to set up everything.
What We Like
- Affordable equipment
- Straightforward monitoring plans with universal pricing
- Easy DIY installation
- Stellar customer support
What We Don’t Like
- No option for self-monitoring
- Monitoring is expensive if your system has only basic components
- Security cameras don’t record continuously
- Not for bigger businesses
Frontpoint Equipment
Frontpoint’s equipment is pretty standard. It has security sensors such as door and motion sensors, safety sensors such as smoke alarms, security cameras, and even automation devices such as smart locks and thermostats if you ever need them for your business.
Frontpoint Indoor Camera We’d like to highlight Frontpoint’s resilience to unforeseen circumstances, which is necessary for 24/7 protection. For starters, the system uses Wi-Fi to send alerts. In case Wi-Fi is unavailable — if an employee accidentally turns it off at closing time, for example — Frontpoint can switch over to cellular networks. The cellular chip is built in and there’s no additional charge for it. Frontpoint is actually one of the top cellular security systems.
Frontpoint’s main hub also features a 24-hour battery backup so it can work during power outages, plus it has crash-and-smash protection that can thwart burglars who try to deactivate the system forcibly. We only see the latter feature in a handful of top home security options, such as SimpliSafe.
Frontpoint Monitoring
Professional monitoring costs $49.99 per month. Since there’s only one plan, you get all the features Frontpoint has to offer, depending on your choice of equipment. One of the features that works great for businesses is crash-and-smash protection. Police will be dispatched even if criminals destroy the security equipment! The $49.99-per-month Frontpoint plan also includes video monitoring and smartphone remote control, in addition to compatibility with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
In a nutshell, Frontpoint features some of the best small-business security systems you can self-install and get expertly monitored. Everyday customer service is friendly and readily available. Emergency monitoring is high quality with cellular and Wi-Fi signaling both available, and with two monitoring centers for redundancy.
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5. Lorex - Robust Security Camera Systems for Businesses of Any Size
Product Specs
Resolution Up to 4K HD Field of View Up to 180° Power Wired, battery, PoE Connectivity Wi-Fi, ethernet Video Storage Cloud, Local Smart Platform Compatibility Alexa and Google Home 
Type of Security Solution
Lorex is the oddball of the group because it doesn’t offer security sensors like the others. Instead it offers security cameras — hundreds of them. Lorex has a wide range of indoor and outdoor cameras that offer a variety of features, from 4K video quality to long-range night vision. We even saw business-grade security cameras that can see up to 250 feet in total darkness under the Nocturnal lineup.
Because Lorex offers only security cameras, we recommend it as a supporting system for your primary business security. Lorex doesn’t offer professional monitoring, so it would still be best for your business to have a monitored security system installed. The advantage of adding Lorex, though, is that you get a wider selection of security cameras than most business security solutions provide.
Mounted Lorex Camera >> Check This Out: Do Security Cameras Deter Crime?
Cost
Another advantage of Lorex is the cost. There are no mandatory monthly fees, because Lorex cameras record locally and save videos to a digital or network video recorder (DVR or NVR). A video recorder is a network-attached computer with terabytes of storage space that can store rolling footage for days or even weeks. That’s certainly something we’d want from business security cameras.
As for the cost of Lorex cameras, it depends on the package. Bundles with less-powerful cameras, which come with four cameras and a DVR, can cost as little as $200 to $300. Larger bundles and more advanced cameras cost more, sometimes up to $2,000 for an eight-camera system. The good news is there’s plenty to choose from, so you can set a budget first and go from there.
How to Install
Unfortunately, Lorex cameras are designed for DIY installation. We say “unfortunately” because it’s not the easiest thing to do, especially with Lorex cameras, which are mostly wired. First you’ll have to connect the DVR to your local internet network, and then connect the cameras to the DVR — usually via a coaxial or Ethernet cable. That may not be something you want to do by yourself.
If you want easier installation, look for Wi-Fi models that can connect to the DVR wirelessly or power-over-Ethernet models that use a single cable for both data transfer and power. Lorex offers some of the best PoE cameras on the market.
In our experience, although wiring Lorex cameras can be tedious, it’s not super technical. We literally just plugged one end of the cable into the DVR and the other end into the camera. Depending on your store’s physical layout, you may be able to work even with wired Lorex cameras.
What We Like
- Wide range of security camera options
- On-site (local) and off-site (cloud) recording options
- Commercial-grade hardware
- Scalable system with DVRs that can accommodate up to 32 cameras
What We Don’t Like
- Lacks security sensors
- No professional monitoring
- Some packages can cost up to $2,000
- Most cameras are internet-reliant
Lorex Equipment
For businesses, we recommend a digital IP setup with an internet-connected NVR and a mix of indoor and outdoor cameras. We tested a Lorex system like that.
Our setup of four 1080p digital IP cameras sent footage to the NVR. With 1 TB of storage space, we were able to save about five days of continuous video. We recommend setting aside time every few days to review recordings before they’re written over.
We also recommend attaching a computer monitor to the NVR, so you can monitor the cameras live or even hire security personnel to monitor it. Just make sure to read up on the legality of security camera monitoring in your state. At the very least, monitoring high-traffic public areas such as parking lots and store entrances should be fine.
Lorex Monitoring
The reason we recommend adding your own live monitoring for Lorex is that Lorex doesn’t offer any monitoring options. It’s a completely DIY brand, so you have to be hands-on in monitoring your cameras. That’s one downside of Lorex compared to monitored business security solutions that offer security cameras and video verification. We discussed a few options that offer such features earlier, including SimpliSafe and ADT.
What Type of Security Equipment Do Businesses Need?
Setting up a business security system doesn’t end in choosing a provider. You should also know what equipment you need to successfully defend your business against crime. Each business will need a different set of equipment, but, in general, these are the types of products you’ll need.
Security Sensors
Security sensors are designed to detect possible intrusions or break-ins, such as door and window sensors, motion sensors, and glass-break sensors. You may not need all of them. A motion sensor, for example, won’t provide much value if there’s always movement in your place of business, such as if you’re running a restaurant or a 24-hour convenience store. A glass-break sensor is more appropriate for such businesses, since it detects the sound of breaking glass.
You should also consider getting panic buttons, especially if customers come and go in your place of business. Panic buttons are linked to a monitoring center. When pressed, they trigger an alarm response and sound your security system’s siren, if available. They can be good for deterring crime.
Safety Sensors
Safety sensors, on the other hand, detect hazards such as fire, flooding, and gas leaks. They are especially important in the food business, but even offices and stores should at least have smoke alarms. Early detection is the key to stopping a fire, and smoke alarms help greatly.
Smoke alarms and gas-leak detectors (aka carbon monoxide detectors) can be monitored alongside your security sensors. Most providers don’t charge extra for smoke and gas-leak monitoring, so take advantage of that to protect your business from such hazards.
>> Pro Tip: Fire Safety and Prevention Pointers
Security Cameras
When installed in a place of business, security cameras can do more than just protect you from crime. They can also help you monitor day-to-day operations, and, of course, shield you from legal, reputational, and financial damages that could arise.
For example, a car dealership in Illinois recently installed high-definition security cameras to thwart false customer claims and prevent employee theft. Before that, management said they were losing $3,000 to $4,000 per month to customers claiming the dealership damaged their cars while being serviced. With high-quality cameras installed, they could definitively investigate whether customer claims were true.4
Our tip when choosing security cameras is to look for one that offers both on-site and off-site video storage. On-site storage, also called local storage, provides easy access to recordings. We recommend adding cloud backup (aka off-site storage) so you don’t lose important footage in case of a damaged recorder.
>> Further Reading: Tips for Storing Sensitive Data (Like Video Recordings)
What Is Professional Monitoring?
All our top picks — except Lorex — offer professional monitoring. Professional monitoring for homes and businesses works the same way: A team of trained agents are on standby to respond to any alerts coming from your system. If an intrusion is detected, for example, they’ll contact you via phone and alert the proper authorities. That means you don’t always have to be hands-on.
Not all businesses need professional monitoring. If you have on-site security personnel around the clock, for example, that’s good for you. Hiring someone to protect your business can cost a pretty penny, though, so professional monitoring is the best option if a dedicated security team is out of your budget.
Business Security Recap
Much like in home security, choosing a business security solution requires careful consideration. You probably have a limited budget to work with, but you certainly want to make sure you can address your business’s security needs. We know it’s not easy, but with our recommended service providers, you’ll enjoy quality equipment, a solid monitoring service, and competitive prices so you can protect your life’s work with ease.
FAQs
Still got questions about the best security systems for businesses? We’re here to help.
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What is the best security system for a small business?
The best security systems for a small business are ADT, SimpliSafe, Vivint, Frontpoint, and Lorex. All of them provide high-quality equipment, and most offer around-the-clock professional monitoring. ADT and Vivint stand out if you want professional installation service, while SimpliSafe, Frontpoint, and Lorex all offer DIY systems.
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How much is a security system for a business?
A security system for a business can range from $100 to thousands of dollars, depending on the company and the size of the physical business. Professional monitoring can also add on costs of anywhere from $10 to $60 a month.
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How much is ADT Business Security a month?
ADT doesn’t advertise the prices for its Business Security. However, its home security professional monitoring costs range from $40 to $60 a month. You can negotiate these rates with your salesperson.
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What is the most secure security system?
ADT is the most secure security system. ADT has been in the security business for over a century, and its longevity is due to the fact that it’s able to keep up with new technologies. Even ADT’s home security systems are known for being secure, so expect its commercial security solutions to offer even more protection. We also like that ADT has cybersecurity offers for businesses, which goes to show that ADT is serious about security overall, not just physical security.
ADT. (2023). ADT Commercial Establishes Standalone Organization, Rebrands Company to Everon™ as GTCR Completes Acquisition.
everonsolutions.com/insights/newsroom/press-release/adt-commercial-establishes-standalone-organization-rebrands-companyADT. (2024). About ADT.
adt.com/about-adtBay Alarm. (2024). WHAT IS VIDEO ALARM VERIFICATION & HOW DOES IT WORK?
bayalarm.com/blog/what-is-video-alarm-verification-how-does-it-work/Car Scoops. (2023). How A Ford Dealer Outsmarts Fake Customer Damage Claims Saving Up To $4,000 Monthly.
carscoops.com/2023/02/ford-dealer-saves-thousands-each-month-over-fake-damage-claims-by-using-high-def-cameras/