August Smart Lock: The Original Retrofit Lock (Now Part of Yale) The August Smart Lock pioneered a simple idea that changed the smart lock market: replace only the interior side of your deadbolt, keep your existing keys, and control everything from your phone. No locksmith needed. No drilling. No landlord drama. Since Yale (ASSA ABLOY) […]
My Alarm Center Review 2026: Alert 360 Merger, Current Support, Contract Checks, and Alternatives
Short answer: My Alarm Center is no longer best evaluated as a separate new-customer brand. Alert 360 and My Alarm Center announced a merger in 2021, and current My Alarm Center support routes redirect to Alert 360. Existing customers should start with their own signed agreement, equipment schedule, billing history, account notices, and the current […]
How to Choose a Home Security System in 2026: DIY vs Pro, Monitoring, Cameras, and Cost
Most buyers overpay by $500-1,500 over 3 years because they skip the math. This 10-step buyer guide covers DIY vs pro install, self-monitoring vs professional ($6-45/mo), contract traps with ADT and Vivint, equipment markups, and which smart home protocols matter. We price out 6 systems from $140 to $2,400 and show the real 3-year cost nobody advertises.
Point Security Review 2026: Company Identity, Equipment, Monitoring, Contracts, and Quote Checklist
Point Security: What You Need to Know Detail Point Security Headquarters Hutto, TX (Austin metro) Founded 2000s — small regional dealer Service Area Texas only (Austin, San Antonio, Houston, Dallas) Business Model Alarm dealer — installs equipment, outsources monitoring Monitoring Outsourced to Monitronics/Brinks Home via Alarm.com Installation Professional only (advertised as “free”) Contracts 36-60 month […]
First Security Services Review 2026: Company Identity, Guard Services, Licensing, and Quote Checklist
Verify the exact First Security Services company, guard or alarm scope, licensing, monitoring, staffing, privacy, quote, acceptance test, and exit terms.
