Wired vs Wireless Security Alarm System, Which Should I Install?

As leading experts in security alarm systems, this is one of the most common questions we get: "Is hardwired better than wireless security alarm systems?" This article breaks down the difference between hardwired and wireless security alarm system to help you determine what's best for you and your specific needs.

What is a Hardwired Security Alarm System?
A hardwired security alarm system uses physical wiring to connect the sensors and other components of the system to a central control panel. In a hardwired security system, the various sensors and detectors (such as door and window contacts, motion sensors, glass break detectors, etc.) are connected to the control panel using electrical wires. These wires typically run through walls, ceilings, and floors to connect the sensors to the control panel, which is usually located in a central location, such as a utility closet or basement. When a sensor or detector is triggered, it sends a signal through the wiring to the control panel.

The Pros of a Hardwired Security Alarm System

• Communication between the central control panel and sensors is always reliable 
• Wired sensors can't be jammed or hacked
• There is little to no maintenance after installation because sensors get their power from the central control panel and not batteries

The Cons of a Hardwired Security Alarm System

• Can be difficult and expensive to install; holes need to be drilled to install the physical wiring
• Physical wiring can be broken 
• Placement of sensors can be limited for an already built home or business because the physical wiring needs to be installed through walls and existing obstructions
• If you relocate home or business, the security alarm system can't be easily transferred because the physical wiring will need to be considered at your new location

What is a Wireless Security Alarm System?
A wireless security alarm system uses wireless communication to connect the sensors and other components of the system to a central control panel. In a wireless system, the various sensors and detectors (such as door and window contacts, motion sensors, glass break detectors, etc.) communicate with the control panel using radio frequency (RF) signals. The sensors are powered by batteries and are placed in various locations throughout the building. When a sensor or detector is triggered, it sends a wireless signal to the receiver, which is connected to the control panel. 

The Pros of a Wireless Security Alarm System

• Installation is usually straight forward and predictable
• Greater flexibility in terms of placement of sensors and other component because they can be placed anywhere within range of the central control panel
• Can be easily moved to a new location if you move

The Cons of a Wireless Security Alarm System

• Wireless communication between the central control panel and sensors can be disrupted if signal strength is weak
• Wireless sensors need their batteries replaced every 3 - 5 years
• Wireless communication can potentially be jammed or hacked

Which should I install?
It depends.

First, we want to rule out whether your home or business can qualify for a hardwired security alarm installation. If your home or business can't, then you're left with installing a wireless security alarm. 

Factors that influences our experts ability to install a hardwired security alarm system mostly comes down to accessibility when installing physical wires in a concealed manner. For example, if your home is a 2-story home, then that means there would be no attic space for our experts to access in order to conceal the physical wires on the 1st floor. Therefore, a wireless security alarm installation would likely be recommended.

If your home or business qualifies for both a hardwired and wireless security alarm system, then we provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. The information we provide you includes where the sensors would be located for a hardwired vs wireless system. How the sensors would work to capture burglars coming from different potential entryways. Where you can expect holes to be drilled and where the physical wires to be installed at for a hardwired system. ​Which doors would be instant alarm zones vs delayed alarm zones. And any other information that helps you make an informed decision.