Important: Protect America has permanently shut down. The company filed for bankruptcy in October 2021, stopped accepting new customers, and eventually ceased all monitoring services. If you’re a former Protect America customer — or you’re searching “Protect America vs ADT” because you’re trying to decide between the two — this guide covers what happened, what to do with your equipment, and which modern systems are actually worth buying in 2026.
What Happened to Protect America? (Complete Timeline)
Protect America was once a major DIY security provider based in Austin, TX, known for affordable monitoring with GE/Interlogix equipment and later Qolsys panels. Here’s the full story of their rise and fall:
| Year | Event | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 1992 | Founded in Austin, TX | Pioneered phone-based DIY alarm sales |
| 2000s | Rapid growth via online marketing | Became one of the largest DIY alarm providers |
| 2010-2015 | Peak subscriber count — competitive $19.99-$42.99/mo plans | Competed with ADT, Vivint, Frontpoint |
| 2016-2018 | Ring and SimpliSafe disrupted market with no-contract, lower-cost systems | Protect America’s contract model became uncompetitive |
| 2019 | GE/Interlogix (equipment supplier) announced shutdown | Primary equipment source discontinued — supply chain crisis |
| 2020 | Stopped accepting new customers in most states | Revenue decline accelerated |
| Oct 2021 | Filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy | $50M+ in debt, subscriber base collapsed |
| 2022-2023 | Ceased all monitoring services | Remaining customers left without protection |
| 2024-2026 | Company fully dissolved | Website down, equipment orphaned |
Why Protect America Failed (5 Lessons for Security Buyers)
Protect America’s death wasn’t sudden — it was a slow decline caused by the same problems that have killed dozens of traditional alarm companies. Understanding why they failed helps you avoid making the same mistake with your next system.
| Failure Factor | What Happened | Lesson for Buyers |
|---|---|---|
| Long-term contracts | Required 36-month contracts while Ring and SimpliSafe offered month-to-month | Choose no-contract systems — if your provider fails, you can switch instantly |
| Proprietary equipment | Used GE/Interlogix panels that became orphaned when GE exited security in 2019 | Choose systems with standard protocols (Z-Wave, Zigbee, Matter) — sensors work across brands |
| No cameras | Never developed a competitive camera lineup while Ring and Abode offered integrated video | Cameras are now essential — systems without them can’t compete |
| Cloud dependency | When Protect America stopped paying for servers, customer panels lost cloud features | Look for systems with local processing backup (HomeKit, Z-Wave hub) |
| Aggressive sales tactics | Phone sales with high-pressure contract pushes — led to BBB complaints and chargebacks | Avoid any company that pressures you into contracts — reputable systems sell themselves |
The “Dead Alarm Company” Pattern
Protect America isn’t alone. A wave of traditional alarm companies have shut down, been acquired, or become shells of their former selves. This pattern affects millions of homeowners:
| Company | What Happened | Year | Customers Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protect America | Bankruptcy, ceased operations | 2021-2023 | ~300K subscribers |
| LiveWatch | Acquired by Monitronics/Brinks, brand dissolved | 2017 | ~50K subscribers |
| ASG Security | Acquired by Guardian Protection | 2018 | ~100K subscribers |
| Cox Homelife | Cable company exited security | 2023 | ~200K subscribers |
| AT&T Digital Life | Telecom giant exited security | 2024 | ~300K subscribers |
| Google Nest Secure | Tech giant discontinued alarm system | 2020 | Unknown (low adoption) |
The pattern is clear: Companies that treat home security as a side business (telecom, cable, tech giants) or rely on outdated contract models eventually abandon their customers. Choose a company where security is their only business.
Former Protect America Customers: Your 3 Options
Option 1: Switch to a Modern DIY System (Recommended)
Start fresh with a system that won’t disappear. Modern DIY systems are cheaper, smarter, have no contracts, and use standard protocols so your investment is protected:
| System | Equipment Start | Monthly | Contract | Cameras | Smart Home | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abode ⭐ | $199 | $0-$20 | None | Cam 2 $35 | HomeKit + Alexa + Google + Z-Wave + Zigbee | Smart home users, Apple households |
| Ring Alarm | $199 | $0-$20 | None | Ring ecosystem (extensive) | Alexa deep integration | Amazon/Alexa households |
| SimpliSafe | $249 | $0-$30 | None | Own cameras (4 models) | Alexa + Google (basic) | Easiest setup, video verification |
Option 2: Keep Your Panel + Switch Monitoring (Budget Option)
If you have a Qolsys IQ Panel or GE/Interlogix panel from Protect America that still powers on, you may be able to get cheap third-party monitoring:
| Monitoring Service | Monthly Cost | Compatible Panels | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alarm Relay | ~$8.95/mo | Most GE, Honeywell, DSC panels | Cheapest monitoring available | No app, no smart features, aging panel |
| Alarm Grid | ~$10-25/mo | Qolsys, Honeywell, 2GIG (via Alarm.com) | Alarm.com app, smart features | Requires compatible cellular module |
| SuretyHome | ~$13-20/mo | Qolsys, 2GIG (via Alarm.com) | Good support, Alarm.com features | Limited panel compatibility |
Reality check: Your Protect America equipment is 3-10+ years old, running discontinued firmware, with no security patches. The cellular module may use 3G bands that have been sunset. We recommend upgrading to a modern system — the $199 for an Abode Smart Security Kit is worth it for current technology, app control, and ongoing updates.
Option 3: Switch to ADT
ADT is still operational and offers both professional install and self-setup options. However, ADT is significantly more expensive than modern DIY alternatives — and the contract model (for pro install) carries many of the same risks that sank Protect America.
ADT vs Modern DIY: The Real Comparison
Since Protect America no longer exists, the real question is: should you go with ADT or a modern DIY system? Here’s the complete breakdown:
| Feature | ADT Pro Install | ADT Self Setup | Abode | Ring Alarm | SimpliSafe |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly cost | $28-$60 | $6-$25 | $0-$20 | $0-$20 | $0-$30 |
| Equipment cost | $0-$400 (financed) | $200-$500 | $199-$479 | $199-$329 | $249-$510 |
| Contract | 36 months | None | None | None | None |
| Early termination | 75% of remaining balance | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Installation | Professional ($99-$199) | DIY (30-60 min) | DIY (30 min) | DIY (30 min) | DIY (30 min) |
| Cameras | Google Nest cameras | Google Nest cameras | Abode Cam 2 ($35) | Ring cameras (10+ models) | Own cameras (4 models) |
| Smart home | Google Home (limited) | Google Home, Alexa | HomeKit + Alexa + Google + Z-Wave + Zigbee | Alexa (deep) | Alexa + Google (basic) |
| Cellular backup | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ (Connect+ / Pro) | ✅ | ✅ |
| Geofencing | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Crash & smash | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| HomeKit | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ (only system) | ❌ | ❌ |
| Video verification | ✅ (ADT Virtual Assist) | Limited | ✅ (Pro plan) | Limited | ✅ (Fast Protect) |
3-Year Total Cost Comparison
| Setup | Equipment | 3-Year Monitoring | 3-Year Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADT Pro Install (Pro plan) | $0-$400 | $2,160 | $2,160-$2,560 |
| ADT Pro Install (Basic) | $0-$400 | $1,008 | $1,008-$1,408 |
| ADT Self Setup | $200-$500 | $216-$900 | $416-$1,400 |
| Abode (Pro monitoring) | $199-$400 | $720 | $919-$1,120 |
| Abode (Self-monitoring) | $199-$400 | $0 | $199-$400 |
| Ring (Protect Plus) | $199-$329 | $720 | $919-$1,049 |
| Ring (Self-monitoring) | $199-$329 | $0 | $199-$329 |
| SimpliSafe (Interactive) | $249-$510 | $1,080 | $1,329-$1,590 |
| Protect America (was) | $0 (leased) | $720-$1,548 | $720-$1,548 (+ contract trap) |
Key insight: ADT Pro Install can cost 2-6x more than modern DIY systems over 3 years — with no better protection. ADT Self Setup is more competitive but still pricier than Abode or Ring for equivalent features.
Who Should Choose ADT (And Who Shouldn’t)
| Choose ADT If… | Choose DIY (Abode/Ring/SimpliSafe) If… |
|---|---|
| You want professional installation and zero DIY | You can spend 30 minutes on setup (it’s truly easy) |
| You trust legacy brand names above all else | You value features and value over brand recognition |
| Your employer or insurance requires “ADT” specifically | You want insurance discounts (any monitored system qualifies) |
| You need commercial-grade monitoring for a business | You’re protecting a home, apartment, or small property |
| You prefer a single point of contact for everything | You’re comfortable managing your system via app |
Our Recommendation: Abode
For former Protect America customers — and anyone comparing ADT to alternatives — Abode is our #1 recommendation. Here’s why it’s specifically better for people coming from Protect America:
| What You Had (Protect America) | What You Get (Abode) | Improvement |
|---|---|---|
| $19.99-$42.99/mo monitoring | $0-$20/mo (free self-monitoring tier) | Save $0-$516/year |
| 36-month contract lock-in | No contract — cancel anytime | Zero risk |
| GE/Interlogix panels (discontinued) | Active, updated hub with OTA firmware | Current technology |
| No cameras | Abode Cam 2 — $35 | Best camera value in market |
| No smart home (or basic Z-Wave) | HomeKit + Alexa + Google + Z-Wave + Zigbee + Matter | Works with everything |
| Phone app (basic) | Full mobile app + geofencing auto-arm | Never forget to arm again |
| Company went bankrupt | Security is Abode’s only business | No side-project risk |
Protect America Equipment: Can You Reuse It?
| Equipment Type | Frequency | Reusable With | Our Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| GE/Interlogix panel | N/A | Alarm Relay, Alarm Grid (if compatible) | ❌ Replace — discontinued, no updates |
| Qolsys IQ Panel | N/A | Alarm Grid, SuretyHome (via Alarm.com) | ⚠️ Maybe — if firmware is current |
| 319.5MHz sensors | 319.5MHz | Some Honeywell panels, Alarm.com translators | ❌ Replace — GE frequency, limited compatibility |
| 345MHz sensors | 345MHz | Honeywell/Resideo panels, some Qolsys | ⚠️ Maybe — but sensors are aging |
| Z-Wave devices | 908.42MHz | Abode, Ring, SmartThings, any Z-Wave hub | ✅ Reuse — standard protocol |
| Cellular module | LTE/3G | May not work — 3G sunset, carrier changes | ❌ Replace — likely incompatible |
Bottom line: Most Protect America equipment isn’t worth keeping. Z-Wave devices (smart locks, plugs, dimmers) can transfer to Abode. Everything else should be replaced.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Protect America still in business?
No. Protect America filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in October 2021 and has fully ceased operations. The website is down and no monitoring services are available. Former customers should switch to a modern DIY system like Abode, Ring, or SimpliSafe.
Am I still under contract with Protect America?
No. When a company ceases operations, your contract obligations end. If Protect America (or a debt collector) is still charging you, dispute the charges with your credit card company or bank. You don’t owe money to a company that stopped providing services. See our contract cancellation guide for more details.
What’s the cheapest replacement for Protect America?
Ring Alarm starts at $199 with free self-monitoring. For professional monitoring, Abode offers a $6/month Connect plan — that’s $415 over 3 years vs the $720-$1,548 you’d have paid Protect America.
Is ADT better than what Protect America offered?
ADT has better monitoring infrastructure (9 centers, 6 million subscribers) and isn’t going bankrupt. But ADT Pro Install uses the same contract model that killed Protect America — 36 months, early termination fees, proprietary equipment. ADT Self Setup is contract-free and more reasonable, but modern DIY systems like Abode still offer more features at lower cost.
Should I go with ADT or a DIY system?
For most homeowners, a DIY system is better value. Abode offers professional monitoring at $20/month with no contract, HomeKit support, geofencing, and cameras starting at $35. Over 3 years, you’ll save $600-$1,500 vs ADT Pro Install while getting more smart home features.
What other alarm companies have shut down?
Protect America joins a growing list: LiveWatch (acquired by Brinks), Cox Homelife (discontinued), AT&T Digital Life (shut down), Google Nest Secure (discontinued), and more. The safest bet is a dedicated security company like Abode or SimpliSafe where security is their only business.
Related Resources
- Protect America Review 2026 — detailed shutdown history
- Protect America vs Frontpoint — another comparison with a defunct company
- ADT Home Security Review 2026
- Abode Home Security Review 2026 — our #1 pick
- How to Cancel Your Security Contract
- Best No Monthly Fee Security Systems
- Best Security for Renters 2026
- Signs Your Alarm System Is Outdated
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.
Cooper says
I have been researching and researching. I have narrowed it down to these two. It sounds like both are good choices. This article has been really helpful. I think I just need to pick one.
Evon says
I have ADT installed. This is the second year of my contract and i have no regrets. The customer service is commendable when I have needed them. The app took some time to learn how to control everything, there is just so many things you can do with it compared to Protect America’s app!
Farrello J. says
Such a close call. ProtectAmerica offers more equipment and zero charges for relocation. This is perfect for renters. ADT, on the other hand, offers newer gadgets and a proven track record. My choice being ProtectAmerica doesn’t seem like a bad one.
Sanders says
Protect America has great packages and promotions but I don’t want to install it myself. That’s just me, it want professionals to install it correctly. I don’t trust myself to do it!
Mark B. says
You didn’t discuss life time warranty and service call which are free with ADT. Also the fact that the contract is month to month after the inital first 3 years for ADT making it in my opinion the best.
Charles Feldman says
This is a great side by side comparison chart. If we’re just looking at the price point, then Protect America would be the logical choice. However, there are so many factors at play here including the quality of equipment, reputation, and level of support, among others. For DIY people, the choice is clear, but I personally would like a professional to install my home security system to make sure that things work okay and without glitches. Now that Protect America offers installation for a fee, then choosing becomes tougher. But I believe that either way you choose, you get a good product. You’d just be spending a little more for ADT.
John says
I was pleasantly surprised by how well the installation went with Protect America when I decided to do it myself. The security system may not be as far advanced as ADT Pulse is but I am happy with it and have several features that the other doesn’t. Both are great companies, my parents have ADT so I think I just wanted to try someone else. Either way you are good to go!
Desirae Robb says
This is a very good comparison. In fact, it is the main reason that I come to this site. Having an in depth look at things like this is a great help!
Jordan says
Between the two, I think I would go with ADT. They are more nationally known and a trustworthy brand. Both of them seem excellent, though.
Edison Joshuah says
A friend of mine got them so I came here to check them out before doing the same. He has sweet equipment and I really like the Protect America app he uses on the phone. It’s been reliable on business trips etc. so I went ahead about got it using the 888-936-2878 number provided here! Thanks
Samuel says
I just love these kinds of reviews where you can see both of them head to head. Without something like this, it is quite difficult to decide. I was liking Vivint when I started browsing your site but now I feel more attracted to Protect America because of their starting costs, move with you at no cost feature and as you said, they have the most equipment included with their starting package. Not to mention their excellent BBB rating. Tough choice between the two but I think I will choose Protect America.
Mark L. says
Good head to head battle we have here! I like to have it all with a cherry on top so that is why I got ADT’s Pulse over the smaller guys. But like you said in the article, can’t really go wrong with either company. At least you know you aren’t signing up with a piece of crap company like Vivint.
Nathan says
Very comprehensive comparison between the two. Really tired of the depressing service provided by my present service provider and was thinking of making a switch. I was fixed from so many days between Protect America and ADT. On one hand, Protect America has got slightly cheaper packages, more equipment per buck spent as compared to ADT, but on the other hand, ADT is ADT after all. Everyone uses it and has the trust level of a mother.
In the present context, which one will be your recommendation for me? I can spend around $40 a month. Let me know!!!
Alarm Reviews says
Hey Nate, at $40 flat we recommend PA then. Best of luck!
Zue says
I got Protect America since they have been around 10 yrs and they have always been helpful whenever I needed help. I was very reluctant to buy a security alarm system for my home’s security and family. I have installed it by myself and saved some money, It was very easy to set up and I didn’t face any issues getting it connected.
Alan J. says
Nice comparison I must say. I have ADT in my house and my friend has Protect America and I can say with authority that ADT is definitely a better bet. Not just because I have it but I have very closely watched and analyzed the packages, security equipment, customer service, etc. which really puts ADT on the top but my friend does pay less than me a month with Protect America.
Shawn says
I am afraid I have to agree. ADT is more but it is better. I had Protect America for a year and I just simply didn’t like it. Their customer service is great but ADT is easier for me and more reliable. I have been with them for 2 years. I like the comparison. Don’t think they are bad, they just weren’t for me. Very friendly people work for PA.
Marc says
WOW, this comparison is based on the real statistics. Both the companies have reputation in the industry. But, it is important to choose the company, which can meet your needs. This post assisted me a lot in comparing them. Thanks!
William Scot says
With low start up cost and monthly costs, plus the same 36 month agreement, it looks like Protect America is a good place to at least start.
Margaret Adams says
Yes it is. We have this system and at first I was thrown by the contract length, but we have not thought about another company since it was installed.
Red Killmore says
With the two company paired up side by side here, it is nice to see the similarities, as well as the differences. At least you can make an informed decision based on the information you see. Sometimes you can even tell what you are losing when paying less.
Jackson Young says
Wow, seeing all of the add on pieces side by side makes me feel like self-installation would be overwhelming. I’m not a DIY type guy, but I thought that I could do it. But, we live in a big old house, with 19 windows (I just counted them), 5 exterior doors, and heave only knows what for antiquated wiring. This article confirmed, ADTs for me because of reputation and the fact that I won’t have to install the system.
Keaton says
Wow! I’ve never heard of Protect America, but they sound like a very solid and reputable service. They compare very well with ADT. I’ll have to look more into them to see what all they have to offer. Thanks for the info.
Heather Smith says
It’s true, those blue and white signs are already known by most people and that alone can be enough to deter anyone from breaking into your home. But, I’m curious about Protect America…never hear of it until now–it sounds like a pretty good deal!
Erica says
I like the fact that you can take the system with you with Protect America and it works with renters. That makes the contract much more manageable. And since I’m an IT tech the install shouldn’t be too hard to deal with. I’ve always thought that I would go with ADT since I’d read so much about them, but being a renter, Protect America really makes the most sense.
Jen says
I had never heard of Protect America, but it sounds pretty decent. I’d probably still go with the ADT name, but it’s good to have options.
Jane Hoyle says
Yeah it seems Protect America isn’t that bad. A friend of mine uses the service and loves it and from this comparison with ADT it doesn’t seem to be far off from how good ADT is. Though I think I’m still leaning more towards ADT these days.
Maddie W. says
Good comparison of the two companies but I wanted to add a few things. Protect America has quicker response times (I use them) and my friends who have adt dont get as quick of response but they still do get one at least haha. You get a little more free equipment with Protect America but ADT definitely has higher end equipment and you dont have to set it up yourself.
Gabrielle says
Maddie, how long have you used Protect America? I’m on the fence between these two and would really love some input! My sister moved away and right now I live alone and I really want to buy one of these two systems. The initial costs balance out with the DIY installation so now they both look the same.
Kim N says
This is great to have all of this information side by side. The cost alone might make me lean more towards PA, even though I would have to install it myself. But ADT is pretty renowned. Glad to find a site that’s done it’s homework to make it easier for me.
Alarm Reviews says
Good point Kim, however Protect America did recently add a ‘pay for install’ service as well. This is the closest line up of companies in terms of history and services provided so it can be a tough comparison. Glad we could help!
Jake Birchall says
ADT wins hands down in my mind but I do have experience with both. If your looking for a quick, cheap alternative the Protect America probably is your best choice. My advice is spend the extra $99 and get the installation done for you. They both have two way over voice cell modules which is nice (a new standard). PA has more online material and conveniences with your account membership but Pulse is a much better app to control your home. If you want home automation and the latest then for sure you will want ADT. At least both of these companies have been around for awhile unlike Frontpoint which I see going under any one of these days.