Ask Slashdot: State of the Art In DIY Security Systems?

An anonymous reader writes "For geeks that want to secure their home, it seems that the choice of Do It Yourself solutions are limited. And in case you prefer to use a company, most of them require to subscribe to a contract for 3 years that costs at least $20 a month. In case you want to make a DIY security system without a monthly fee, few options are available. Some products (such as ismartalarm, Lowe's Iris system or also the fortress security) let you install your own system but seem not to be very mature (for some the alarm is not loud, for others they do not use the internet and only a land line, etc.). Is there any recommendation for a basic DIY home security system for monitoring the house and just have notification by e-mail or through a mobile application? Is there any open standard for home automation and security devices? Any suggestion about how to build something simple, affordable and efficient?" How to top the big-name subscription-based security companies is a recurring question, but one worth exploring every once in a while, as sensors and software both advance, and especially as more and more people are carrying around phones well-suited as remote monitors for in-house cameras. (And here's a preemptive link to ZoneMinder.)

Comments

Re:Best Home Security System

[tompaulco]

Oh, I see. A douchebag is someone who wishes to protect their family and the things they have worked for. While a burglar, I suppose, must be practically a saint. This society is really making me sick, always wanting to coddle the criminals while giving hard working people crap for trying to keep and enjoy what they have worked for. Why don't all you people who want to allow people to steal from each other without repercussions go start yourself a new country? I'll even come visit sometimes, but I won't bring my wallet.