Frontpoint vs ADT: In-Depth Security System Review

Introduction to ADT and Frontpoint

If you’re searching for a straightforward comparison of home alarm options, Frontpoint vs ADT is one of the most common matchups. Both providers are well-known in the home security space, but they target different kinds of buyers. This section gives a quick snapshot of each company and the main factors to weigh before you choose.

• ADT — A legacy security brand built around professional installation, nationwide monitoring infrastructure and a broad lineup of equipment. ADT is aimed at homeowners who want a white‑glove install, strong brand recognition and a full suite of device options backed by long‑standing monitoring services.
• Frontpoint — A modern, DIY‑friendly provider that emphasizes easy setup, flexible month‑to‑month options, and highly rated customer service. Frontpoint is attractive if you prefer to install and manage most devices yourself and value straightforward, cloud‑centric smart home integrations.

Key decision factors to consider in the Frontpoint vs ADT choice:

• Installation preference: professional installation (ADT) vs DIY (Frontpoint).
• Contract flexibility: long‑term contracts and financed equipment (ADT) vs month‑to‑month or short commitments (Frontpoint).
• Monitoring and reliability: both offer professional monitoring, but the delivery model and pricing structure differ.
• Equipment and smart home: ADT typically offers a wider range of gear and integrations; Frontpoint focuses on easy, wireless equipment that’s simple to expand.
• Customer support and user experience: Frontpoint often scores higher for customer service and onboarding, while ADT benefits from institutional resources and nationwide reach.

Who each company is best for

• Pick ADT if you want a professionally installed system, prefer dealing with an established national company, or need access to a broad catalog of equipment and installation services.
• Pick Frontpoint if you want an easy DIY setup, more flexible contracting, and a user‑friendly experience with strong customer service.

Read on for a deeper look at equipment, monitoring plans, installation methods and app experiences so you can decide which system fits your needs. If you’re leaning toward a DIY solution, our guide to DIY home security systems can help you compare setup options; if you want to weigh other providers too, see our overview of alternatives to major home security systems.

Overview of Both Security Systems

Both ADT and Frontpoint cover the basics you expect from modern home security systems, but they approach those basics differently. Below is a focused look at what each company offers in terms of wireless equipment, 24/7 monitoring, smart home automation, and the apps you’ll use to control the system.

Key similarities

• Equipment: Both vendors support a standard lineup of sensors and peripherals — door/window contacts, motion detectors, glass‑break sensors, indoor/outdoor cameras, and smart locks. Much of the gear is wireless or has wireless options, making both systems suitable for renters and homeowners who don’t want invasive wiring.
• 24/7 monitoring: Each company provides professional monitoring with cellular backup options so your system stays connected if Wi‑Fi or power goes down. That means you’ll pay a monthly monitoring fee but get the benefit of around‑the‑clock emergency response.
• App control: Both offer mobile apps that let you arm/disarm the system, receive push alerts, view live camera feeds, and control smart home devices remotely. For more on how apps fit into modern security setups, see our guide to home security apps.
• Smart home integrations: ADT and Frontpoint both integrate with common smart platforms (voice assistants, smart locks, thermostats, lights), enabling smart home automation routines like arming on a schedule or switching lights on when motion triggers a camera.

Key differences to watch

• Installation model: ADT historically focuses on professional installation and a technician‑led setup, while Frontpoint is built for DIY installation with pre‑programmed, peel‑and‑stick sensors. If you prefer a hands‑off install, ADT leans toward that; if you want to install yourself and move the system later, Frontpoint is easier.
• Equipment variety and ecosystems: ADT’s larger dealer and partner network tends to offer a wider catalog of third‑party devices and optional pro‑grade equipment. Frontpoint’s catalog is more streamlined around easy‑to‑use wireless products optimized for DIY customers.
• Contract and pricing model: While both require monitoring for full professional response, Frontpoint emphasizes flexibility (monthly or short contracts when equipment is paid upfront), whereas ADT commonly bundles professional installation and longer contract terms for financed equipment.
• Customer experience: Many customers praise Frontpoint for faster, more personalized onboarding with a DIY focus, while ADT’s strength is scale — a nationwide monitoring footprint and extensive support options.

What this means for you

• If you value a turnkey, professionally installed system with access to a broad range of equipment and an enterprise monitoring network, ADT is a solid fit.
• If you prefer wireless equipment, quick setup, transparent pricing and the option to self‑install or move your system, Frontpoint is likely a better match.

Compare the specific camera and video options before you buy — if video quality or storage is a priority, check our guide to the best Wi‑Fi security cameras to understand how camera features differ across providers.

Next up: we’ll break down pricing and plans so you can see how monitoring options, equipment financing and contract terms change the total cost of ownership.

Pricing and Plans Compared

Understanding ADT pricing vs Frontpoint pricing comes down to three questions: how much do you pay up front for equipment, how much are monthly monitoring costs, and what contract or financing terms apply. Below we explain what to watch for and how to use the tables to compare total cost of ownership.

What to compare

• Upfront vs financed equipment: Some customers pay for gear up front; others roll equipment into monthly payments. Rolling equipment into a plan can lower initial outlay but often extends your commitment.
• Monitoring features and add‑ons: Compare what each monthly plan actually includes — professional monitoring, video storage, mobile app features, cellular backup and any camera subscription fees. These line items affect ongoing cost more than a single device price.
• Installation and setup: ADT commonly promotes professional installation, which may mean an installation fee or higher financed package; Frontpoint is primarily a DIY installation model, so you’ll avoid installer charges but will set up yourself.
• Contracts and cancellation: Look for contract length, early termination fees, and whether monthly plans are available when equipment is financed. Frontpoint’s trial/return policy (such as a 30‑day money‑back guarantee) is useful if you want a low‑risk way to test the system.
• Hidden or recurring camera fees: Video recording and cloud storage are often charged separately. If cameras are important to you, verify whether cloud storage or extra video monitoring increases the monthly bill.

Who benefits from each pricing model

• Choose Frontpoint if you prefer transparent, DIY pricing and more flexibility (month‑to‑month options when you pay up front) and value a straightforward trial period.
• Choose ADT if you prefer a professionally installed system, need financing to spread equipment cost, and are comfortable with longer contract terms in exchange for white‑glove installation and a large monitoring network.

How to use the tables below

• The first table shows ADT pricing details (equipment options, installation approach, and typical monitoring tiers).
• The second table shows Frontpoint pricing (package options, DIY setup, and trial/return policy).
  Use the two tables together to compare upfront costs, whether equipment can be financed, included monitoring features, and contract fine print (early termination, equipment buyout).

For more detail on DIY costs and setup tradeoffs, see our guide to DIY home security systems. If you want deeper historical pricing or Frontpoint‑specific promotions, check this Frontpoint pricing breakdown: Frontpoint cost and pricing details.

Installation Methods for Both Systems

Installation is one of the clearest differences in the Frontpoint vs ADT debate: ADT leans toward professional installation, while Frontpoint is built for DIY setup. Below is a practical look at what each route involves, the trade‑offs, and which type of buyer each suits best.

What to expect with ADT (professional)

• ADT typically offers a technician‑led install: a trained installer comes to your home, mounts sensors and cameras, wires devices if necessary, and configures the system end‑to‑end.
• Pros: it’s hands‑off for you, the installer can integrate complex equipment (hardwired sensors, smart locks, professional camera setups), and you usually get a walkthrough of how everything works.
• Considerations: scheduling an appointment may add wait time, and professional installs are usually bundled into financed packages or carry an installation fee. ADT’s approach suits homeowners who want a white‑glove experience, are less comfortable with tech, or need pro‑grade hardware integrated into an existing wired system.

What to expect with Frontpoint (DIY)

• Frontpoint’s gear is designed for quick DIY installation: wireless sensors are pre‑programmed, most devices use peel‑and‑stick mounts, and setup is done through the hub and mobile app.
• Pros: faster setup (often under an hour), lower or no install fees, and greater portability when you move. DIY is ideal for renters, tech‑comfortable owners, or anyone who prefers to control device placement.
• Considerations: you’ll be responsible for placement and troubleshooting, and Frontpoint does not typically provide in‑home installers. If you prefer a professional to run wiring or mount cameras in difficult locations, DIY may feel limiting.

Practical differences and trade-offs

• Speed vs polish: DIY (Frontpoint) is fast and flexible; professional (ADT) tends to be more polished and thorough but takes more time to schedule.
• Cost: DIY reduces initial install charges but may shift some responsibility to you; professional installs add upfront or financed costs but remove setup risk.
• Equipment and complexity: ADT’s pros can handle mixed ecosystems and hardwired components; Frontpoint focuses on wireless, modular systems that are easier to expand yourself.
• Support and warranty: professional installs sometimes include installer guarantees or on‑site fixes; DIY systems rely on remote support and the manufacturer’s warranty.

Tips to pick the right path

• Choose ADT’s professional installation if you want a fully configured, hands‑off start, have complex wiring/camera needs, or value on‑site support.
• Choose Frontpoint’s DIY approach if you want lower friction to get started, expect to move the system, or want the flexibility to customize your setup without booking an installer.
• If you’re unsure about DIY, read our DIY home security guide for setup tips and what tools or skills you’ll need.

Next up: we’ll compare monitoring services and show how each company’s installation choices affect the monitoring experience and ongoing costs.

Monitoring Services Overview

Professional monitoring is a core difference to weigh in the Frontpoint vs ADT decision. Both companies offer 24/7 professional monitoring, but they deliver it with different setups, contract models, and features. This section explains how each provider handles monitoring, what to look for in a monitoring plan, and which option suits different users.

How professional monitoring works (same basics for both)

• An alarm (sensor, smoke, or panic button) triggers an alert to a central station.
• Trained operators verify the event, contact the homeowner, and — if necessary — dispatch emergency responders.
• Reliable monitoring uses cellular backup and redundant monitoring centers so the system stays connected even if power or internet fail.

ADT monitoring — scale and options

• ADT leans on a large, nationwide monitoring network and long experience in professional monitoring. That scale can mean more redundancy and multiple call/response options.
• ADT traditionally supported landline monitoring historically, but modern ADT plans include cellular backup and options for video and home automation integration.
• Monitoring model: ADT typically offers tiered or customized monitoring plans tied to equipment and services; customers often select add‑ons (video storage, smart home automation) when they configure a package.
• Who it fits: homeowners who want a long‑standing, widely available monitoring service with professional installation and the option to bundle advanced equipment.

Frontpoint monitoring — simplicity and modern cell-first design

• Frontpoint is built around cellular monitoring and a streamlined set of monitoring plans focused on remote access, video, and smart home features.
• Plans are designed to be straightforward for DIY customers: monitoring, cellular backup and app control are core to their offering, and Frontpoint emphasizes portability and transparent plan features.
• Who it fits: renters and DIYers who want modern, mobile‑first monitoring with easy setup and flexible contract options.

Key features to compare between plans

• Cellular backup and dual‑path communications (cell + Wi‑Fi): ensures the system signals even if one connection fails.
• Video monitoring and cloud storage: check whether live streaming and recorded clips are included or cost extra.
• Crash & smash protection: detects attempts to disable the panel and triggers immediate monitoring escalation.
• False alarm policies and verification steps: some providers require additional verification before dispatch; others call multiple contacts first.
• Response time and redundancy: larger networks may offer greater geographic redundancy (important in regional outages).

Costs and contract impact

• Monitoring fees are recurring and usually drive lifetime ownership cost more than the upfront hardware purchase. Compare what each plan includes rather than raw monthly price.
• Contract terms (month‑to‑month vs multi‑year) affect flexibility. Frontpoint tends to offer more flexible options for DIY customers; ADT frequently ties financing and professional install to longer commitments.
• If you prefer to self-monitor (no monthly fee), review alternatives in our guide to best self‑monitored home security systems.

Practical tips before you sign

• Confirm whether cellular backup is included and whether the plan supports dual‑path communications.
• Ask about video storage limits and camera subscription fees if you plan to use multiple cameras.
• Clarify the provider’s false alarm policy, verification process, and any fees for emergency dispatch.
• Test the app experience and notification speed — app reliability matters for remote monitoring; see our coverage of home security apps for what to expect.

Which monitoring setup should you pick?

• Pick ADT if you want the security of a large, professionally managed monitoring network and are comfortable with longer contracts and professional installation.
• Pick Frontpoint if you prefer a cellular, mobile‑first solution with simpler plan choices and more contract flexibility that pairs well with DIY installation.

Next we’ll look at how each company handles customer support and real‑world service experiences.

Customer Support Analysis

Customer support is a practical, often decisive factor in the Frontpoint vs ADT choice. Both companies provide support for setup, troubleshooting and account issues, but their approaches and user experiences differ. Below is a focused comparison of channels, responsiveness, and the types of support you can expect — plus tips for testing support before you buy.

How the two providers handle support

• ADT

• Support mix: nationwide operations tend to offer phone, live chat, and additional guided support channels (some reps can do visual troubleshooting).

• Strengths: breadth of resources and local reach thanks to ADT’s long history and large dealer/partner network. Good for customers who want multiple ways to get help or on‑site technician support after professional installation.

• Considerations: some customers report inconsistent interactions depending on region or the specific dealer; if you buy via a third‑party dealer, support/dispatch can feel fragmented.

• Frontpoint

• Support mix: focused on phone, email and online help resources optimized for a DIY customer base. Frontpoint emphasizes friendly onboarding for self‑install customers.

• Strengths: consistently high marks for responsiveness and helpfulness in user feedback; clear processes for DIY setup and quick remote troubleshooting.

• Considerations: fewer in‑person support options (no broad installer network), so if you want on‑site troubleshooting you may need to handle it yourself or pay for a third‑party tech.

What matters most in real world support

• Channels and availability: is help available 24/7, by phone, chat, email or video? Multiple channels reduce friction when you need fast answers.
• Onboarding experience: does the company guide you through setup and app configuration, or do you do all the work? DIY systems benefit more from strong remote onboarding.
• Escalation and warranty handling: how easy is it to get a replacement device, schedule a service visit, or escalate a technical problem?
• Dealer vs corporate support: ADT’s dealer model means support quality can vary by dealer; Frontpoint’s centralized support tends to be more consistent.
• Community and documentation: clear online guides, FAQs and video walkthroughs can often resolve common issues faster than waiting on hold.

Who should pick which support model

• Choose Frontpoint if you want consistently good remote support for a DIY installation, quick onboarding over the phone, and predictable online help. Frontpoint is a strong pick for people comfortable with self‑install who still want fast, friendly technical support.
• Choose ADT if you value the option of in‑home technician service, multiple contact channels, and the reassurance of a large, national provider — especially if you prefer a professionally installed system and local dealer service.

Quick tips to evaluate support before buying

• Call each provider’s support line with a technical question (or a pre‑sales question) and note hold time, friendliness and the clarity of the answer.
• Ask exactly how device replacements, warranty claims and service visits are handled.
• Read recent customer reviews to check for trends in response times and issue resolution.
• If you’re leaning DIY, review our DIY home security guide to understand what support you’ll realistically need; if you want other company options, see our alternatives to major home security systems.

Bottom line: Frontpoint generally earns higher marks for remote customer service and onboarding, while ADT offers broader channels and in‑person support options tied to its professional installation model. Match the support model to how involved you want to be in setup and long‑term system management.

App Functionality Comparison

The mobile experience is where most users interact with their security system daily, so comparing the ADT app and the Frontpoint app is critical when deciding between these brands. Both apps give you remote control and alerts, but they differ in polish, platform strengths, and advanced automation options.

What both apps do well

• Remote arm/disarm, sensor status and push alerts for alarms and events.
• Live view and two‑way audio for cameras and video doorbells (when cameras are included in your plan).
• Remote control for connected smart devices (locks, lights, thermostats) and basic scheduling/automation.
• Multi‑user access and unique user codes managed from the app for family members or contractors.

Key differences to know

• User interface and responsiveness: the ADT app tends to be more mature on some platforms and can feel more polished for users who prefer a visually refined iOS experience. Frontpoint’s app is built around a fast, straightforward workflow that many DIY customers find easy to navigate on Android and iOS.
• Platform strengths: reviewers and user feedback often note small differences in Android vs. iPhone performance between the two apps. If you’re primarily an iPhone user, the ADT mobile experience may feel slightly tighter; Android users frequently praise Frontpoint’s responsiveness.
• Advanced automation and integrations: both apps support popular smart home integrations (voice assistants, smart locks, smart bulbs), but ADT’s larger partner ecosystem can offer deeper choices for third‑party devices in some setups. Frontpoint focuses on straightforward integrations that work well with its wireless, DIY approach.
• Video features and storage: apps differ in how they present live video, motion clips and cloud storage. Confirm whether cloud storage and advanced video features (clip length, number of cameras stored) are included in your plan or require add‑ons.
• Notifications and false‑alarm control: both apps offer configurable notifications; their approaches to push vs. SMS vs. email alerts and how they handle alarm verification can vary, so test the notification flow before you rely on it.

Practical tips for evaluating app experience

• Try the demo or read recent app store reviews to check current reliability and update cadence.
• Test critical flows: arm/disarm, receive a push alert, view live camera feed, and run an automation — these are the day‑to‑day tasks you’ll use most.
• Check camera management: if video is a priority, compare how each app handles multi‑camera layouts and clip playback (see our camera guide for what to expect: best Wi‑Fi security cameras).
• Confirm multi‑user setup and permissions if multiple household members need different access levels.

Which app is right for you

• Choose the ADT app if you want a mature app experience with broad third‑party integrations and you value a polished iPhone experience or access to dealer/installer support tied into the app workflow.
• Choose the Frontpoint app if you prefer a straightforward, fast mobile experience that complements a DIY installation and you want easy, predictable control without dealing with installer ties.

For a deeper look at how apps should perform and what to expect from mobile control overall, see our guide to home security apps.

Pros and Cons of Each Security System

Choosing between Frontpoint and ADT often comes down to trade‑offs: ADT emphasizes professional installation, broad equipment options and an established monitoring network, while Frontpoint focuses on DIY setup, flexible contracts and strong customer service. Below are the key pros and cons for each to help match a system to your priorities.

ADT — Pros & Cons

ADT is the legacy option: extensive dealer and installer coverage, lots of equipment choices, and a large monitoring footprint. That scale is an advantage if you want professional installation and on‑site service, but it often comes with longer contracts and higher upfront costs.

Who ADT is best for

• Homeowners who want a professionally installed system and access to in‑home technician support.
• Buyers who prefer a large provider with many third‑party smart home integrations.

Frontpoint — Pros & Cons

Frontpoint is geared toward DIY customers who want easy setup, good remote support and more flexible contract choices (including month‑to‑month options when you pay upfront). It’s a strong option if you value transparency, strong customer service and portability, but it offers fewer in‑person installation options.

Who Frontpoint is best for

• Renters or homeowners who want a quick, no‑installer setup and the ability to move the system easily.
• Buyers who value strong remote support, month‑to‑month flexibility and a clear trial window.

Final decision tips

• Pick ADT if you want a white‑glove, professionally installed system with broad equipment choices and dealer support.
• Pick Frontpoint if you prefer DIY installation, better remote onboarding and more flexible contract options.

If you’re weighing DIY pros/cons in more detail, see our guide to DIY home security and for alternatives to consider, visit our alternatives to major home security systems.

Commonly Asked Questions

Below are short, practical answers to the most common questions readers ask when comparing Frontpoint vs ADT.

How does Frontpoint compare to ADT?
Frontpoint is a DIY‑focused provider that emphasizes easy self‑installation, transparent pricing and flexible contract options. ADT is a long‑standing, professionally installed option with a large dealer and monitoring footprint. Which is better depends on whether you prefer a white‑glove install and broad equipment choices (ADT) or simpler setup and contract flexibility (Frontpoint).

What are the key differences between Frontpoint and ADT?
The biggest differences are installation style (Frontpoint = DIY, ADT = professional install options), contract flexibility (Frontpoint offers more month‑to‑month options), and customer support models (Frontpoint is known for strong remote support; ADT provides more in‑person service via dealers).

Which system is more affordable, Frontpoint or ADT?
Costs depend on equipment choices and monitoring plans. Frontpoint often has lower upfront options and more flexible monitoring contracts, while ADT can have higher initial setup and equipment costs—especially when you opt for professional installation and bundled services. Compare total equipment + monitoring over time to judge affordability.

Can I install Frontpoint myself?
Yes. Frontpoint systems are designed for DIY installation — sensors are typically pre‑programmed and use peel‑and‑stick mounts. If you prefer step‑by‑step self‑install guidance, check our DIY resources: DIY home security.

Does Frontpoint or ADT require professional monitoring?
Both companies offer professional 24/7 monitoring. Neither is primarily a self‑monitoring, no‑monthly‑fee solution (if you want that model, see our best self‑monitored systems). Frontpoint’s monitoring is cellular‑first; ADT supports cellular/Wi‑Fi and historically used landline options unless upgraded.

Does Frontpoint have a trial or money‑back guarantee?
Yes — Frontpoint typically offers a 30‑day money‑back guarantee allowing customers to try the system risk‑free. Always confirm current trial and return terms before purchasing.

Can Frontpoint operate without Wi‑Fi?
Yes. Frontpoint’s hub can operate over a cellular connection, so basic signaling and monitored alarm functions work if your home Wi‑Fi is down.

Is Frontpoint’s customer service better than ADT’s?
Customer satisfaction varies, but Frontpoint generally receives higher marks for remote customer support and onboarding. ADT offers more contact channels and in‑person service through dealers, but support experience can vary by region and dealer.

What monitoring technologies do Frontpoint and ADT use?
Frontpoint emphasizes cellular monitoring with app control. ADT uses cellular and Wi‑Fi, and historically supported landline back‑up; modern ADT plans include cellular redundancy and various connectivity options.

How long are contracts for Frontpoint compared to ADT?
Frontpoint offers more flexible, month‑to‑month options (especially if equipment is purchased outright), while ADT often ties financing and long‑term service to multi‑year contracts. Read contract terms carefully for early termination and buyout costs.

What features are included in Frontpoint packages?
Frontpoint packages commonly include professional monitoring, smart home control, mobile alerts, and video options. They position their top monitoring plan to include video, automation and advanced features — but confirm whether cloud video storage or advanced video features are included or require add‑ons.

What types of alarms and sensors does ADT provide?
ADT offers a wide range of sensors and alarms — contact sensors, motion detectors, glass‑break sensors, environmental sensors (smoke, CO, flood), and an extensive camera lineup. ADT’s broad equipment catalog is one of its strengths.

Who are the main competitors to ADT?
Key ADT competitors include Frontpoint, Vivint, SimpliSafe, and other DIY or professional providers. If you’re exploring alternatives, see our alternatives to major home security systems.

What system deters burglars most effectively?
Research suggests that professionally monitored systems with visible signage and cameras tend to be stronger deterrents. Both ADT and Frontpoint offer monitored systems; ADT’s professional installation and legacy presence may provide greater deterrence for some homes, while Frontpoint’s video and mobile alerts still offer solid deterrent and response features.

If you have a specific question about pricing, installation logistics, or app behavior, check the relevant sections above or ask — we can point you to the most up‑to‑date plan and feature details.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

When weighing Frontpoint vs ADT, there isn’t a single “best security system” for everyone — each brand serves different priorities. Below is a concise conclusion and clear recommendations based on typical buyer needs.

Quick summary

• Frontpoint wins on DIY friendliness, flexible contract options, and strong remote customer support. It’s designed for people who want fast setup, transparent pricing and good app‑based control.
• ADT wins on professional installation, broad equipment selection and the reassurance of a large, long‑standing monitoring network. It’s a better fit if you want in‑home technician support and a full service, dealer‑backed experience.

Who we recommend each for

• Pick Frontpoint if you:
• Prefer DIY installation and want to install and move equipment yourself.
• Value month‑to‑month flexibility or a clear trial window.
• Care most about helpful remote onboarding and predictable remote support.
• Pick ADT if you:
• Want professional installation and on‑site service options.
• Need access to a wide range of equipment and integrations through dealer channels.
• Prefer the perceived deterrent and continuity of a large, legacy monitoring provider.

Other practical guidance

• If video cameras are a top priority, compare camera features and storage policies carefully — see our guide to the best Wi‑Fi security camera models.
• If you’re unsure whether to self‑install or get a pro, read our DIY home security guide to evaluate effort vs. cost.
• Test the app experience (arm/disarm, live view, notifications) — mobile usability is a daily touchpoint; our home security apps guide explains what matters.

Decision checklist — ask these before you buy

• Do you want on‑site installation and in‑home support, or will you install it yourself?
• How long are you willing to commit to a monitoring contract? (month‑to‑month vs multi‑year)
• Will you rely heavily on cameras and cloud video storage? Who pays for that storage?
• How important is local dealer support or same‑day technician visits?
• Do you want maximum portability (e.g., moving to a new home) or a permanently installed system?

Final note
Both companies provide reliable professional monitoring and solid smart‑home features; the right choice comes down to whether you prioritize flexibility and DIY convenience (Frontpoint) or white‑glove installation and dealer support (ADT). If you want alternatives or a broader shopping list, check our roundup of alternatives to major home security systems.

William Eames

William is a tech buff and former corporate security officer turned cybercrime analyst. Computers have few secrets left for him, but home security and alarm systems… Well, those have plenty of secrets for their users, which William is now uncovering and explaining. His articles on home security helped many people take the matter seriously, invest in highly performing systems, and avoid becoming victims of burglaries.