Wired vs. Wireless Home Security Systems: Pros and Cons

Quick answer: Wireless security systems are ideal for renters, and those wanting remote access, while wired systems suit homeowners with unreliable internet or large properties. Many modern security systems, like Vivint's, offer hybrid security that combines the benefits of both.

You want to do everything you can to keep your home, your family, and yourself safe. A great home security system can help you deter unwanted visitors, keep an eye on your loved ones, and call for help in case of an emergency.

What is a wired home security system? A wired system is tied into your home’s electrical system. It uses a coaxial cable to send video footage to a central storage machine.

What is a wireless home security system? A wireless alarm system uses a Wi-Fi, Z-Wave technology, or Zigbee technology to allow communication between devices without physical cable connections.

This guide aims to help you pick the right type of system for your home. We explain the pros and cons of each type of home alarm system and discuss the key differences between them.

Wired vs. wireless security systems: Quick comparison

What are the pros and cons of wired home security systems?

A wired home security system consists of a series of cameras, motion sensors, and other security devices that need to be manually connected to your home’s wiring system. Attaching a device to your home’s electrical wiring can be difficult unless you have some electrical expertise. That’s why wired systems generally require professional installation.

Here are a few benefits of having a wired security system.

• Extremely difficult to hack remotely. Wired systems can't be accessed through a wireless connection. A hacker would have to physically interact with your camera or its SD card to see footage from your home security cameras.
• Strong, reliable signal in large spaces. Information that travels over a wired connection is faster and more secure than information that runs through Wi-Fi. This makes wired systems ideal for big houses or office buildings.
• No maintenance required. Wired security systems rely on your home's electrical system for power, so you don't have to ever change batteries.
• Continues recording during internet outages. Because wired security systems don't rely on Wi-Fi, they can still work if your internet is down.

Here are some disadvantages of having a wired security system.

• Intrusive and expensive installation. You will likely need professional installation. The installer will usually have to drill into your walls to connect the security system to your home's electrical wiring.
• Less portable. A wired system is hard to transport. While you may be able to take it with you when you move, it is a lot of work.
• No remote control. Wired security systems normally have a stationary control panel but lack a mobile app that lets you check in remotely.

What are the pros and cons of wireless home security systems?

Devices in a wireless home security system use Wi-Fi internet to communicate with one another. If you want your security system to be part of a wider smart home setup, then a wireless home security system is your best bet.

Here are some benefits of having a wireless home security kit.

• Simple DIY installation. You don't have to drill into your walls or connect to any wires with a wireless system. However, a professional can still help you mount your equipment for maximum effectiveness.
• Remote access. You can control your system and watch security footage from anywhere via your system's mobile app. A wireless system can send you notifications whenever there is activity at your home, so you always know what's happening.
• Multiple ways to control. You can access your system from a touch-screen smart hub, a keypad, your movie device, or even smart devices like Google Home.
• Portability. If you need to move or decide you want to relocate a device, it's easy to transport a wireless security system.
• Automatic backup. Wireless security systems often use cloud storage, so your footage is backed up immediately and accessible from anywhere.
• Smart home compatibility. Devices in a wireless system are compatible with other smart home devices, making it easy to build a home automation experience. For instance, you could program your smart locks to lock, your motion detection sensors to activate, and your thermostat to automatically bring the temperature to 68 degrees at 10:30 p.m.

Here are some disadvantages of using a wireless system.

• Potentially vulnerable to hacking. It's possible to hack a wireless security system. You can reduce this risk by using strong passwords and keeping your device software up to date.
• Signal reliability. Wireless signals can transmit slower than signals in a wired system, especially if you have spotty Wi-Fi.
• Battery replacement required. Many wireless systems are battery-powered, so you'll have to replace batteries to keep your devices working.
• Internet dependency. A wireless system won't work well if your Wi-Fi is spotty and won't work at all if your internet is down.

What's the difference between wired and wireless home security?

Now that you know some of the pros and cons of wired and wireless systems, let’s recap some of the main differences between them.

Wireless systems are simple to install. Wired systems need to be manually connected to your home’s electrical wiring and almost always need to be installed by an expert. You might be able to DIY your wireless system installation.

Wireless systems can be monitored and managed remotely, while wired systems can’t. This is because wired systems send information through coaxial cables inside your home, while wireless systems use a Wi-Fi internet connection to communicate. Wired systems, however, can send information faster and more securely.

A wired system will typically store a video recording on a local storage device, like a digital video recorder (DVR). This allows the system to record video even when the internet isn’t working. You can connect the DVR to your internet using an ethernet cable if you want to store a clip online.

A wireless system will generally store a video clip directly to cloud storage. Footage stored on a cloud server can easily be viewed and shared online. Security companies typically charge a monthly fee for cloud storage.

A wireless security camera system can be part of a larger smart home setup while a wired system can’t. Wireless systems have functionality that lets them connect to and operate with various smart devices.

What is a hybrid home security system?

A hybrid security system uses hardwired power to eliminate power concerns while communicating wirelessly for remote access and smart home integration. They are perfect for homeowners who want the reliability of wired power with the convenience of wireless connectivity.

Vivint sells professionally installed hybrid security systems that combine reliable power with wireless connectivity. Everything can be controlled remotely via the Vivint app, and every system works with smart devices like thermostats and Google Home.

What’s the best home security system: Wired or wireless?

Wireless systems are best for you if:

• You rent your home or apartment
• You plan on moving soon
• You're a smart home enthusiast
• You're on a tight budget
• You want remote monitoring

Wired systems are best for you if:

• You live in a large home
• You have unreliable Wi-Fi
• You want faster connectivity
• You want to greatly reduce the risk of hacking

Whether wired or wireless security is best for you depends on the following factors:

• Where you live: Not everywhere has quality Wi-Fi internet. A wired system might be a solid option if you live in a rural area where a reliable wireless internet connection is difficult to find.
• Your living situation: If you live in a rental property, your landlord may not be happy if you drill into the walls to install a wired security system.
• Remote access: You’ll need to have a wireless system with a reliable mobile app if you want to check in on your home, family, or pets while you’re at work or on vacation.
• The features and add-ons you need: Do you want weatherproof outdoor cameras or an indoor camera with color night vision? Maybe you need a video doorbell with two-way audio to talk to delivery drivers. Security systems have a variety of features.
• How you want your system installed: DIY home security systems can lower installation costs, but a professional installer will have the skills to connect your system so it gives you the maximum amount of protection possible.
• How much you’re looking to spend: Wireless system devices are typically more expensive than those in a wired one. However, installation for a wired system often costs more than installation for a wireless system. Take both factors into account when budgeting. A system with an extended warranty may also be able to save you money over time.
• Your smart devices: If you have an interconnected smart home, you’ll need wireless security devices that can interact with it. Finding devices that share connectivity can require some research.

Discover leading home security system solutions from Vivint

Get the best of both worlds with a hybird wired/wireless security system from Vivint. Every security system has the reliability and speed of a wired system with all the benefits of remote monitoring and smart home compatibility.

If you’re ready to update your home automation game, we’ll guide you through designing and implementing your ideal smart home setup. Give us the chance to help you make your home more convenient, efficient, and safe with smart home technology. Call us at at 855.822.1220 today.

Frequently asked security system questions

Still have questions about wired and wireless security systems? Get the answers to some frequently asked questions here.

Can wireless security systems be hacked?

Yes, wireless systems can potentially be hacked through a compromised Wi-Fi network. However, you can significantly reduce this risk by using a strong, unique Wi-Fi password and keeping your system's firmware updated.

Do wired systems work during power outages?

Wired systems are powered by your home's electrical system, so they typically stop working during power outages unless connected to a backup power source. However, they continue recording during internet outages since they don't rely on Wi-Fi.

Which type of security system is better for renters?

Wireless systems are generally better for renters because they don't require drilling into walls, are easy to install without professional help, and can be transported to a new place when you move.

Do I need internet for a home security system?

Wired systems don't require internet to record footage locally. Wireless systems typically need Wi-Fi to function, though some offer cellular backup for uninterrupted use during internet outages.

How long do batteries last in wireless security systems?

Battery life varies by device and usage, but most wireless security cameras and sensors last between 6 months to 2 years before needing a battery replacement or recharging.