There are many differences between unmonitored and monitored security systems, but below are the main ones:
- Monitored Security Systems: These involve 24/7 real-time surveillance by third-party professionals who oversee your system in a central monitoring station. They will notify emergency services once an alarm is triggered for quicker responses.
- Unmonitored Security Systems: Also referred to as self-monitored security systems, these offer a cheaper way to handle triggered alarms by yourself (like calling the authorities) even if you’re away.
We’ll discuss more of these in detail below along with the pros and cons of each. We’ll also differentiate unmonitored and monitored security systems based on 5 factors: system reliability, monitoring expertise, response speed, cost, and level of convenience.
Scout Security offers live video surveillance and alarm system monitoring for businesses in the Denver Metro and Colorado Springs areas. We help you prevent crimes to minimize damage, ensure operational efficiency, and protect your bottom line. Contact us now for a customized remote video monitoring solution for your business.
Unmonitored vs. Monitored Security Systems: Definitions and How They Work
Understanding Monitored and Unmonitored Security Systems
| What are unmonitored security systems? | What are monitored security systems? |
|---|---|
| – Can be self-monitored or completely unmonitored but are generally called self-monitored systems – Equipment used for the system can be installed by a professional or DIY – Not overseen by a monitoring station where an ever-present team can monitor alarms | – Actively monitored by a third-party professional security company at a live monitoring station – Use advanced surveillance systems like the integration of CCTV cameras with AI, access control systems, and other intrusion detection devices – Operators can detect issues in real-time, are notified when an alarm goes off, can respond right away, and call the police or emergency services when necessary |
Also Read: What Is CCTV Monitoring and How Does It Work?
How Unmonitored and Monitored Security Systems Work
| Unmonitored Security Systems | Monitored Security Systems |
|---|---|
| – Equipment used can vary greatly depending on the system which can be smartphone-compatible to allow for remote monitoring via a mobile app – The system will send alerts to you via email, SMS, or a mobile app when an alarm is triggered – You will investigate the cause of the alarm yourself (e.g. fire, break-in, etc.) | – The central monitoring station (often a video monitoring center integrated with your alarm system) will be notified as soon as intrusion detection systems and other sensors have detected a breach – Vigilant operators watching live CCTV feeds and monitoring your security system in real-time will swiftly respond to the alarm according to your SOPs |
A More Detailed Discussion on How Monitored Security Systems Work
Monitored security systems operate through a central monitoring station connected to various safety devices depending on your system. These include the following:
- Security cameras
- Motion sensors
- Smoke detectors
- Temperature detectors
- Moisture detectors
- Climate detectors
- Carbon monoxide detectors
- Door and window sensors
- Glass-break sensors
- Two-way speakers (for active monitoring)
- Smart lighting and locks
In addition, the central station is connected to your local law enforcement agency, fire department, and hospitals.
NOTE: There are two primary types of monitored security systems: passive and active.
- Passive Monitoring
This involves systems that are connected to a third-party service that isn’t constantly observed by personnel (e.g. only alarm systems are connected to a central station).
This means that there is no way to verify what caused the alarm to know if it was genuine or not. Nonetheless, the remote team will contact the authorities to alert them of a crime. This option is suitable for situations where continuous surveillance isn’t critical.
- Active Monitoring
This involves live remote surveillance by trained security professionals who monitor your premises through CCTV cameras and alarms around the clock. They can proactively prevent crimes by detecting suspicious activities with the help of vigilant operators, allowing for rapid response.
They can also interact with intruders through audio warnings and ward them off before they can commit any crime. False alarms can also be verified by the operators by reviewing live video feeds before calling the authorities.
A More Detailed Discussion on How Unmonitored Security Systems Work
Depending on your system, devices that you can manage using your smartphone via a mobile app may include the ones we’ve listed for monitored systems. But, the typical devices you will get are:
- A control panel
- Security cameras
- Sirens
- Motion sensors
- Smoke detectors
- Glass-break sensors
- Door and window sensors
You will receive an alert via text message, your mobile app, or local siren upon the activation of an alarm or camera. You can also view real-time footage of your property for systems including CCTV cameras to investigate what caused the alarm. Plus, you are responsible for deciding the appropriate response for the situation, whether it is contacting the police or emergency services.
Also Read: Security 101: Types of Commercial Security Systems & How to Choose
Monitored vs. Unmonitored Security Systems: Summary of Pros and Cons
Before we discuss the differences between monitored and unmonitored security systems based on five factors, here is a summary of the pros and cons of each:
| Unmonitored Security Systems | Monitored Security Systems | |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | – Cheaper in the long run – No monthly fee – One-time purchase – Full control by you – Custom or DIY installation – Cheaper initial costs for simple systems | – Customizable and tailored systems – 24/7 professional surveillance – More comprehensive monitoring – Proactive crime prevention – Convenience – Rapid response – Insurance discounts – Perks, discounts, and minimal or free installation fees |
| Cons | – More property owner responsibility – More expensive initial costs for comprehensive systems – Extra cost for support services – Requires internet – Possibility of missed alarms – More unverified alarms – Less effective incident resolution | – Recurring fees – Minimum contract terms – False alarm fines (for passively monitored systems) |
Also Read: 15 Tips & Best Practices for Securing Your Commercial Property
Differences Between Monitored and Unmonitored Security Systems Based on 5 Factors
DIY security systems are often advertised as affordable, safe, and advanced.
However, you should consider whether you can maintain constant vigilance to effectively manage security breaches yourself before you decide to opt for an unmonitored security system.
You’ll know why in this section.
#1. System Reliability and Support
| Unmonitored Security Systems | Monitored Security Systems |
|---|---|
| – May degrade over time and become less effective without proper maintenance – You are responsible for needed upkeep and repairs – Often with no video backups for retrieving footage – Requires a reliable internet connection for timely alerts | – More extensive setups covering all needed equipment with optional additional features at extra costs – Professional installation ensures correct setup and reliability – Integration with other systems for comprehensive protection – Offers may include secure cloud storage and advanced intrusion detection devices |
Monitored Security Systems
There are providers of monitored security system services that include needed equipment costs in their rates and offer free or minimal installation fees. These systems are often more comprehensive and better compared to DIY systems unless you are willing to spend more for higher-quality self-monitored systems.
Professional installation also gives you peace of mind knowing that your system is correctly installed and guaranteed to always work 24/7.
In addition, you will get higher-quality cameras and smarter sensors to improve detection abilities which are often not offered for self-monitoring systems. For instance, AI integration allows for the verification of genuine alarms which eliminates false alarms (e.g. leaves, animals, etc.).
Unmonitored Security Systems
If you don’t have the time or expertise to maintain your surveillance system, this can lead to less effective surveillance.
These systems require you to be connected to the internet at all times if you want to receive timely alerts and ensure rapid response to emergencies. In addition, you will often not receive any maintenance support, especially if it is a DIY installation.
Moreover, you need to buy digital backups separately for storing and retrieving CCTV footage, especially for investigation purposes to aid with faster incident resolution. This means that you can’t provide evidence to police officers even if you’ve caught the intruder on your camera if you don’t have a digital backup.
Also Read: 21 Benefits of Remote Real-Time Video Monitoring for Businesses: A Comprehensive Guide
#2. Level of Expertise
| Unmonitored Security Systems | Monitored Security Systems |
|---|---|
| – Lack of ability to remain calm and make effective decisions swiftly during incidents | – Trained and certified security professionals- Expertise tailored to your industry’s needs |
Monitored Security Systems
Professional security companies have certified personnel trained in security protocols and effective emergency response for different types of incidents, criminal or medical.
Thus, they possess excellent problem-solving skills to identify threats and deal with them accordingly while maximizing resources. They know when and when not to call the authorities.
Moreover, some companies offer all-in-one security solutions, like Scout Security, that include on-site security guards who they can coordinate with. This allows for faster incident response when a breach is detected by your surveillance system.
CAUTION: Ensure that you are hiring a company that offers comprehensive training to their personnel to ensure that you get experienced operators who are skilled to handle your security needs.
Unmonitored Security Systems
Since all of the responsibility is placed on you and your management, a lack of vigilance and training to calmly handle security incidents can hinder responses. No matter how advanced your security system is, if you don’t have the expertise to maximize it fully, it will be useless.
#3. Alarm Response Speed
| Unmonitored Security Systems | Monitored Security Systems |
|---|---|
| – You might miss alarm notifications when you are unavailable and no one can respond to security breaches – Responses can be delayed since you need to check live video feeds first to verify the alarm’s authenticity – No automatic alerts to the authorities – You will only get notified after a breach has occurred – Remote monitoring using unsecured networks can lead to cybersecurity breaches | – 24/7 monitoring of video feeds ensures prompt response to all detected incidents – Operators can spot signs of suspicious behavior for proactive crime prevention – Faster response times when you have an on-site team that operators can contact – Prepared for different types of emergencies including cyber attacks – Accurate incident reports for the authorities and future review |
Monitored Security Systems
Since operators watch live video feeds round-the-clock and always have a stable internet connection, they can immediately assess alarm triggers, identify the cause, verify if it is genuine, and respond to the situation in as early as a few seconds. (You can receive customized notifications based on what incidents you want to keep track of in your business.)
They are also well-prepared to deal with all kinds of emergencies (e.g. fires, criminal attacks, medical emergencies) and have security teams that they can dispatch as soon as a breach is detected. If a break-in has been confirmed, they will contact the authorities right away.
In the case of intruder alarms, operators can use two-way audio communication systems to warn intruders that they are being watched and discourage them from proceeding further.
Moreover, security system operators are trained in writing detailed incident reports which can be used in addition to CCTV footage to help the authorities speed up their investigations.
CAUTION: Beware of companies offering passive monitoring because there is a risk of costly false alarms due to a lack of real-time observation. Many police departments have no-response policies for unverified alarms and they may even prioritize alarms supported by staff at live monitoring stations.
Unmonitored Security Systems
If you are unavailable or not connected to the internet (e.g. while you’re sleeping, traveling, in a meeting, or a place with poor network coverage), you might miss notifications. There is no way for the alarm to be dealt with since your system will not automatically notify the authorities.
Also, checking live video feeds to determine the authenticity of the alarm takes time which will delay responses further. This can incur more damage to your property as it allows the intruder to complete their actions and have greater chances of escaping.
Moreover, network safety issues can lead to hacking which will compromise your data security and lead to more problems.
NOTE: Unmonitored security systems are reactive and only notify you after a security breach has occurred which does little to prevent crime.
Also Read: 25 Common Video Surveillance Mistakes to Avoid
#4. Security System Cost
| Unmonitored Security Systems | Monitored Security Systems |
|---|---|
| – May have higher upfront costs but cheaper in the long run – Require additional investment to maintain reliability – No ongoing monitoring fees – DIY installation is cheaper but can compromise effectiveness – Higher insurance premiums due to higher risks | – Companies often offer perks, discounts, and free installation – Require ongoing monthly or annual monitoring fees – Offer significant savings by preventing losses – Can get you insurance discounts |
Monitored Security Systems
Despite the higher overall cost of monitored security systems caused by recurring monitoring fees, you can actually end up saving more due to the following:
- Discounted hardware and other devices
- Free or low-cost installation fee
- Extra services (e.g. cloud storage, smart detection, cellular backups)
- Avoiding losses through rapid incident response
- Ensuring profitability by preventing costly business disruptions
- Lowering insurance premiums due to comprehensive monitoring that shows your commitment to security
Unmonitored Security Systems
These have no monthly fees which gives you long-term savings despite the possibility of higher upfront costs.
DIY installation is cheaper, but you need to invest in additional support services to ensure effectiveness which can add to the fees. You might also deal with higher upfront costs due to equipment and installation costs which are usually included in packages for monitored system services.
The good side is you won’t need to pay for ongoing monitoring fees which can save you a lot of money. But if your system includes video storage services, you will need to pay for regular charges.
NOTE: Unmonitored systems are cheaper than monitored systems, but you need to spend more initially to get the same level of reliability.
Also Read: A Complete Guide: How Much Do Remote Video Monitoring Services Cost?
#5. Level of Convenience
| Unmonitored Security Systems | Monitored Security Systems |
|---|---|
| – Cause stress due to the constant need to monitor alerts in addition to potential unreliability in areas with poor cellular coverage – Require your 24/7 vigilance to distinguish harmless incidents from real threats which leads to frequent interruptions to your daily activities – Complete dependence on your availability and ability to monitor alarms | – Outsourced services include system customization and installation – Professionals are responsible for monitoring and emergency response which frees you from any responsibility – Around-the-clock surveillance to ensure continuous protection even when you’re away – Offer peace of mind to high-risk businesses because all security incidents are guaranteed to be dealt with |
Monitored Security Systems
With these systems, you transfer all of the responsibilities to the professionals. These include the following:
- Choosing equipment and installing the system
- Monitoring, verifying, and responding to alarms
- Calling the authorities
Thus, you will have hassle-free security management where you can focus on your core business operations.
Operators can conduct virtual tours of your premises to promptly spot suspicious activities and potential hazards so they can be handled appropriately before they lead to bigger issues. Whether you’re asleep, on a vacation, or not paying attention to your phone, you can rest assured that your property is protected.
Unmonitored Security Systems
Again, unmonitored security systems heavily rely on your vigilance. This means that you can incur significant losses when you are unavailable, out of town, or have run out of battery which increases the number of missed critical alerts.
You won’t have a “day off” if you choose self-monitored systems.
Also Read: 23 Benefits of Outsourcing Video Monitoring and Surveillance Services
How to Know Whether to Choose Monitored or Unmonitored Security Systems
Below are sample cases that can guide you if you should choose monitored or unmonitored security systems:
When Should You Choose Monitored Security Systems?
- You want optimal peace of mind and convenience
- You are willing to invest more money to ensure effectiveness
- You want continuous protection and expert monitoring to ensure that all breaches are handled
- Your business is experiencing major security concerns like theft, fire, vandalism, and others
When Should You Choose Unmonitored Security Systems?
- You want to save money and are comfortable with additional responsibility
- You are confident that you can monitor and deal with security breaches yourself
- You don’t want long-term monitoring contracts
- You want complete control over your security system
Other Things to Know About Monitored and Unmonitored Security Systems
Industries That Can Benefit From a Monitored Security System
Industries and businesses that require immediate incident response to prevent losses and avoid compromising the safety of people include the following:
- Retail: To avoid shoplifting and theft to enhance loss prevention efforts
- Office Buildings: To detect tailgating, avoid workplace violence, ensure the protection of sensitive data, etc.
- Automotive Dealerships: To safeguard vehicles and parts from theft and costly damage
- Parking Lots: To monitor access, prevent car theft, and other major crimes
- Hospitality Settings: To improve customer satisfaction by enhancing customer safety
- Construction Sites: To prevent the theft of expensive machinery and equipment including costly damage due to vandalism, liabilities due to trespassing, etc.
- Manufacturing & Industrial Sites: To ensure workplace safety, prevent costly safety violations and liabilities, monitor operations, etc.
How to Find a Good Commercial Security Monitoring Service
Consider the following factors before you engage in a professional security monitoring service:
- Years of experience in the industry
- The use of advanced technologies like smart detection devices
- Excellent customer support and service responsiveness
- Monitoring costs (make sure to review and compare costs from multiple companies)
- Scale of operations like the number of monitoring centers the company operates
- Their monitoring staff should not be outsourced
- Company policies and insurance coverage to save you from liabilities
Why Choose Scout Security for Real-Time Video Monitoring of Your Security System
We have fully certified and insured CCTV operators who can monitor your security system at a live monitoring station so we can address every security incident on your premises. We use a hybrid security strategy integrating advanced CCTV surveillance with your access control and intrusion detection systems along with on-site security guards to ensure robust security protection.
Contact us now to get customized security solutions tailored to your needs in the Colorado Springs and Denver Metro areas!
