Protection One: What Was It?
Protection One (later Protection 1) was once one of the largest security providers in America — over 2 million customers at its peak. Founded in 1988 in Wichita, Kansas, it grew through aggressive acquisitions before being swallowed by ADT in 2016.
| Detail | Protection One |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1988 (Wichita, KS → later Chicago) |
| Peak Size | 2+ million customers |
| Acquired By | ADT (Apollo Global Management, 2016) |
| Deal Size | $6.9 billion (combined ADT + Protection One) |
| Status in 2026 | ❌ Fully absorbed into ADT — brand eliminated |
| What Happened to Customers | Auto-migrated to ADT accounts |
The Full Timeline: Protection One → ADT
| Year | Event | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 1988 | Founded in Wichita, Kansas | Started as Network Multifamily (apartment security) |
| 1999 | Rebranded to Protection One | Expanded into residential and commercial |
| 2003 | Financial troubles, restructuring | Aggressive growth left massive debt |
| 2007 | Quadrangle Group acquires for ~$800M | Private equity ownership begins |
| 2010 | Rebranded to Protection 1 | Shifted focus toward commercial accounts |
| 2012 | Acquired ASG Security | Added 200K+ customers |
| 2014 | GTCR acquires Protection 1 | More private equity shuffling |
| 2016 | Apollo Global merges ADT + Protection 1 | $6.9B deal — Protection 1 brand eliminated |
| 2018 | ADT goes public (NYSE: ADT) | Former P1 customers fully absorbed |
| 2026 | Protection One brand is fully dead | No trace remains except old signage |
What Protection One’s Story Teaches About the Security Industry
Protection One’s lifecycle — growth through acquisition, private equity ownership, eventual absorption — is the default playbook for traditional alarm companies. It happened to Monitronics, LiveWatch, ASG Security, Protect America, and dozens of regional dealers.
| Pattern | Protection One Example | What It Means for You |
|---|---|---|
| Aggressive acquisition growth | Bought ASG, smaller dealers for subscriber base | Your account is an asset to be traded, not a relationship |
| Private equity ownership | 3 PE firms in 9 years (Quadrangle→GTCR→Apollo) | PE firms optimize for cash extraction, not service quality |
| Brand elimination | Protection One → Protection 1 → ADT | The brand you chose ceases to exist |
| Contract inheritance | P1 contracts became ADT contracts (often worse terms) | You inherit a new company’s pricing and policies |
| Service degradation | BBB complaints spiked during transitions | Customer service suffers during every merger |
If You Were a Protection One Customer
Your Protection One account was automatically migrated to ADT. Here’s what to know and what to do:
| Situation | What to Do | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Still under ADT contract | Check your contract end date | Call ADT at 800-310-9490. If near end, don’t renew — switch to DIY |
| Month-to-month with ADT | Cancel immediately and switch | 30 days notice required. No early termination fee |
| Still have P1 equipment | Check if it’s reusable | Honeywell/2GIG panels may work with Alarm Grid or Alarm Relay |
| Paying $40+/month | You’re drastically overpaying | Modern DIY systems cost $0-20/month for same or better features |
Protection One Equipment: Keep It or Replace It?
Protection One primarily installed Honeywell (VISTA series) and 2GIG panels. If your panel still works:
| Option | Monthly Cost | What You Get | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alarm Relay | $10-14 | Basic monitoring, same panel | Cheapest possible monitoring |
| Alarm Grid | $20-35 | Alarm.com platform, smartphone app | Want app control with existing panel |
| Replace with DIY system | $0-20 | Modern hardware, full features | Best long-term value (recommended) |
Reality check: If your Protection One panel is from 2016 or earlier, it’s 10+ years old. It likely uses 3G cellular (now sunset), has no Wi-Fi, no app, no cameras, no smart home integration, and no geofencing. A $199 modern system gives you all of this plus better sensors. The math overwhelmingly favors replacing.
ADT vs Modern DIY: What You’re Missing
| Feature | ADT (Your Current) | Abode | Ring |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly cost | $28-60 | $0-20 | $0-20 |
| Contract | 36 months typical | None | None |
| Smartphone app | ADT+ (3.5★) | Abode (4.5★) | Ring (4.6★) |
| Camera integration | Google Nest (paid) | Abode Cam 2 + third-party | Ring cameras (20+) |
| Smart home hub | Limited Z-Wave | Z-Wave + Zigbee + HomeKit | Alexa ecosystem |
| Geofencing | Basic | Advanced (CUE automations) | Yes |
| Self-monitoring option | No (paid only) | Yes (free) | Yes (free) |
| Installation | Professional ($99-199) | DIY (15 min) | DIY (15 min) |
| 3-year total | $1,207-$2,359 | $199-$919 | $199-$919 |
3-Year Cost: Protection One/ADT vs Modern DIY
| System | Hardware | Monthly | 3-Year Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADT Self Setup | $199 | $25 | $1,099 |
| ADT Professional | $99-$599 | $28-$60 | $1,107-$2,759 |
| Abode ⭐ | $199 | $0-$20 | $199-$919 |
| Ring | $199 | $0-$20 | $199-$919 |
| SimpliSafe | $199 | $0-$28 | $199-$1,207 |
The Security Company Acquisition Graveyard
Protection One isn’t unique. Here’s the pattern of alarm companies being acquired and absorbed:
| Company | Acquired By | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protection One | ADT (Apollo) | 2016 | ❌ Brand eliminated |
| ASG Security | Guardian → Protection 1 | 2012-2018 | ❌ Brand eliminated |
| LiveWatch | Monitronics/Brinks | 2017 | ❌ Brand eliminated |
| Security Networks | Monitronics | 2014 | ❌ Brand eliminated |
| Protect America | N/A (bankruptcy) | 2023 | ❌ Shut down |
| Monitronics | Licensed Brinks name | 2018 | ⚠️ Operates as “Brinks Home” |
The lesson: If your security company has a corporate parent, private equity owner, or was built through acquisitions, your account is an asset to be traded. Companies like Abode and Ring avoid this because they sell directly — no dealer network, no contract lock-in, no account trading.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Protection One?
Apollo Global Management acquired both ADT and Protection One (Protection 1) in 2016 for $6.9 billion and merged them under the ADT brand. Protection One no longer exists as a separate company.
Is my Protection One equipment still being monitored?
If you’re still paying, yes — through ADT. Your account was automatically migrated. Check your ADT account at adt.com or call 800-310-9490 to verify your contract status.
Can I keep my Protection One panel and switch monitoring?
Possibly. If you have a Honeywell VISTA or 2GIG panel, services like Alarm Grid ($20-35/month) or Alarm Relay ($10-14/month) can monitor it. You’ll need to know your installer code and may need a new cellular communicator.
How do I cancel my ADT service (formerly Protection One)?
Call ADT at 800-310-9490. If under contract, you’ll owe 75% of remaining months. If month-to-month, give 30 days notice. See our full cancel ADT guide for strategies to minimize fees.
What’s the best replacement for Protection One/ADT?
Abode is our top recommendation — $199 for hardware, $0-20/month monitoring, no contract, HomeKit/Alexa/Google support, and a free self-monitoring tier. You’ll save $1,000-2,000 over 3 years compared to ADT.
Should I stick with ADT or switch?
If you’re paying $35+/month for ADT, you’re overpaying for what you get. Modern DIY systems offer better apps, better cameras, smart home integration, and no contracts — for a fraction of the cost. The only reason to stay with ADT is if you specifically want professional installation and don’t want to touch the equipment yourself.
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.
David Lucas says
Well back on May 6th, my protection one box keep saying network failure. I know enough about network so I moved the box to another location. Then it quit working completely on March 12th. So I called in and they said I had a bad celluar card we will send you one. I live in a bad area of town I asked to have shipped to my office. They assured me that is where it would go. Didn’t came to my house and was stolen of my porch May 18th . They sent me another one and I got the tracking early enough to find out it was going back to my house called protection one they said they would get in touch with FEDex and have it sent to my office. Nope sent back to them May 23rd, so I call again get another one sent out to me finally get this one hook it up May 31st I use Verizon cell phone and have 4 to 5 bars at my house hooked it up. Done what they said. Didn’t work, they said I need a bigger antenna. So today June 4th I get my bigger antenna. No this still doesn’t work, so now they claim it is my box that is bad. I asked them can’t they send someone to fix this I’m getting tired of waiting and shipping stuff around they said no they don’t have local offices. However what is this I found. 2148 Pelham Pkwy, Building 700, Pelham, AL 35124. I told them I was willing to pay for a service call and have someone come fix this. They said I have to wait on a label box up my unit send them the unit once they get it and figure out the problem I will get another unit. So I have been without service for now a month. You think after everything I been through they would do something more to help. Sure free month is nice but I’m unprotected. I have already spoken to a lawyer and if I get broke into for them being stupid we are going to sue Protection One. I’m ready to box everything up and get my money back and go with another company. This is a wasted of time and nothing but a bunch of lairs and people that don’t care about the customers. They have my credit card on file and charge me ever month. What the hell would it hurt for them to over night me a new one. I box up and send my old one in.
Amanda Andrew says
Protection one is HORRIBLE do not sign up, do not unless you want to be lied to and mislead. They are very manipulative. They told me I could cancel anytime free of charge and now are telling me it will cost me $1900.oo to cancel their shitty ass service.
WT says
Protection One was an excellent, customer oriented company until ADT took over. I know because I’ve used them for over 10 years and there is a marked difference in pricing and customer service. When we moved in 2016, their Tech said he could not install an outside siren. I later found out that was not true and askef Protection One to correct the problem. They finally agreed only if I signed a new 3/ year contract. No way! This is a problem you created and it needs to be corrected without penalizing me. When my contract ends, I will definitely be looking for another company.
Alarm Reviews says
Hope they find a way to make this merge successful since it’s such a giant one! Customers go through enough hurdles and headaches getting the service, no need for more when it switched companies. Pretty common thing to happen as we have pin pointed in other articles. ADT has acquired Brinx, Broadview and other giants throughout the years.
Rajesh says
About the rudest people you can get. They were like a lender asking you for money you owe. I am not sure how they plan to sign up people with an approach like that. The representative demanded my personal information before he could give out any information. Then said they would charge me $44.95 + tax per month just for monitoring using my existing system. That’s it.
Kenny Cowan says
4 years ago, my wife signed us up for Protection One. The sales guy that knocked on the door then was pushy, high pressure, and absolutely refused to wait until I was there. She signed a 3 year contract, which we were not given a copy of. They came out and installed the equipment, and left with no instruction on its use, and without one of the main features that I had asked for, which they claimed we never asked for.
2 months later, one of the keypads went out. They dispatched a service tech, who replaced the defective keypad, then charged us $100 for the service call. Apparently there was no warranty on their brand-new equipment. Same keypad died another month later, another service call and another $100 later, it was only a battery.
After 3 years, I called and spoke to their customer service and tried to cancel, but was informed I still had 12 months on contract, and would be subject to a large cancellation fee. I let it go, and marked down in my calendar when the contract was up. We called yesterday (12 months later) to cancel again, and were informed that we now had 13 more months on the contract. I asked for a copy of the contract, and was e-mailed a pdf that has my wife’s signature electronically added to it, clearly not what she signed 4 years earlier.
This company has done nothing but lie and fail to provide the services asked for. They are rude, deceitful, and I will continue to dissuade anyone from every using them.
Cassandra manna says
After getting a phone call that the alarm had been triggered it took an hour and a half before security actually showed up. We still haven’t heard from them we are out of town have no idea what’s going on and are in a different state. This is the worst service ever, no one seems to know anything about what’s going on and if it was a break in they would have the whole place cleaned out by now. What a fraud of a company absolutely shameful
Rosalinda Nelson says
I am not a happy camper with protection one!!!!
Nancy says
I spoke to a man names Ryan something on the phone. I was trying to see about getting Protection One for my home. The way he spoke to me was very unfriendly and pushy. He almost tried scaring me in to doing business with them. Telling me all these stats for robbery and criminals in my area and then saying my chanced with and without the security. It was very unpleasant. I haven’t called back and I fully intend on going with someone else.
Constance Raines says
I signed up for Protection 1 about 1 month ago. I paid $300, which equals to 8 monthly service payments. My next payment would be due in 9 months. After the 1st month, I received a bill in the mail for $84.**. So I called to inquire. I was told it was an error and don’t worry about it. The $84 had been taken from my $300 and had a balance of $215 est. When looking at my bank statement a few days later, I noticed a charge of about $84! Of course, I called to inquire. I was on hold for about 5 minutes when I was told that an error had been made. Protection 1 had taken money from my account again. In an effort to fix this issue they credit my Protection 1 balance to $300 .So what if I did not have $84 in my account to allot for his bill? Also no-one asked permission to take money from my account. The lady stated that I signed up for auto bill pay…. which I will need to fix because I do not recall that. I wonder what will be the issue with his company moving forward…..I signed up for Protection 1 about 1 month ago. I paid $300, which equals to 8 monthly service payments. My next payment would be due in 9 months. After the 1st month, I received a bill in the mail for $84.**. So I called to inquire. I was told it was an error and don’t worry about it. The $84 had been taken from my $300 and had a balance of $215 est. When looking at my bank statement a few days later, I noticed a charge of about $84! Of course, I called to inquire. I was on hold for about 5 minutes when I was told that an error had been made. Protection 1 had taken money from my account again. In an effort to fix this issue they credit my Protection 1 balance to $300 .So what if I did not have $84 in my account to allot for his bill? Also no-one asked permission to take money from my account. The lady stated that I signed up for auto bill pay…. which I will need to fix because I do not recall that. I wonder what will be the issue with his company moving forward…..
Franky Rhodes says
A lot of places to auto-pay. This is just something you have to assume today. Companies know they can bank off of people not knowing about it so they do it. I had the same issue with another company a few years back so it is just something I always ask going it. I have been with Protection One for 7 months now and never had this happen to me. What area are you in?
Jeff Eagel says
Be careful when you want to discontinue monitoring service with this company! They look to charge you for the next month of service when you don’t even have the service any longer! Nowhere does it say anything about this cancellation policy on any billing statement. I don’t know any other company that sends a bill for the next month when you don’t have their service any longer? I can understand if there were late charges or any other open fees due. I wonder if The Attorney General knows of any other companies with similar tactics?
Laura says
Wow, I’m surprised to see that adt bought them. They were a great company and had excellent customer service. I had them before and loved their service. I was going to go back to them once I moved into my new house but I guess that’s not going to happen now. Looks like adt seems to be taking over the industry.
Gemma says
My cousin currently uses this security system, what he complains about at all times is the high monitoring cost. I think protection security solutions really needs to review their prices, to keep existing customers and attract new customers too.
Clara says
Hi Gemma, your cousin was right I also made use of them and experienced that too, but with the recent development of ADT taking over, I think drastic changes will be made including the high monitoring cost.
A.C. says
My door was kicked in, and my apartment was burglarized on December 7, 2016. My system was armed, and this company did not respond. I live in an apartment complex, and I cannot opt out of this PAID service. A gun was stolen, during the robbery, and I could’ve walked in, and been killed with my own gun! My lawyer will be contacting this company.
Craig Fricke says
Do not use this fraud company. They installed a home security system in our house. It did not work. They came 3 times to fix it and charged us every time. In my opinion if you cannot install it right they shouldn’t be charging me anything. When I talk to them the employees agree but cannot do anything about it.
Brian Gehlert says
Not everyone can be wholly satisfied with the services of a home security system provider, but from my experience thus far I would give ProtectionOne a pass mark. The seamless integration of their system in Home automation makes it altogether a nice choice, although they are other systems that offer similar services at a lesser cost.
Pius Reese says
I totally agree with you. The home automation integration Protection One offers makes it difficult to overlook. Definitely worth considering.
Shelby says
I use to have this company,, but then switches to ADT. They were great at first, but once I had a problem with the alarm going off for no reason, it took them days to get out to my place. It was a real pain to keeping them when it went off!
Gregory Wavers says
I spent the last 6 months doing my research on companies and I can’t tell you how much this information has helped me. I set up an appointment to get a security system installed next Thursday. I am going to forward your site to everyone I know cause it has the best break downs and reviews I have found online.
Jay says
I have protection one and am liking it. Was wondering what’s the prices of additional sensors an does it add to the monthly charge.
Alarm Reviews says
Hey Jay,
Good to hear. Sensors vary between $39-199. If you are adding some extra door, window or motions you shouldn’t spend more than $49 a pop. They may even give you some free upgrades if you are willing to extend your contract. Once you have been with them longer than 3 years make sure you get a free upgrade. If not, cancel and switch to a new security system who will get you better equipment at no cost.
Derick F. says
I tried contacting Protection 1 and it seemed a bit overwheleming. They have different options such as DIY or professional installation and then all the prices differ inbetween. I ended up going with ADT because their Pulse price and system was easier to understand. These guys missed out, at least for now!
Erich says
My company was with Protection 1 for 6 years. Not one time did anyone ever come out to do service. When we started having problems with the alarm, still no one came out. Then when we had enough and switched services, we received two more bills AFTER THAT DATE. Do not waste your time or your trust with these people. Especially avoid Melissa, Eric, and Rick in the customer service department.
P.S. When Protection 1 sent their technician to pick up the equipment that was here (the only time they came here since the installation), the P1 Tech complemented us on the new panel we had had installed by their competition.
Nelly says
I think Protection One is very cost effective solution for a home security system. I am a single mother and it gave me everything I needed to feel safe at home. I also had them connect the monitoring to a few of my emergency contacts in case a burglary does take place. Thanks Alarm Reviews for specs and details.
Sarah says
I have been using them for about 6 months and have had no issues. I’m not convinced I have the top of the line security equipment but for an average person like me, it is everything you need.
Maddie says
I have never heard of this company before, but they do seem pretty good. I’m a little hesitant on a few things they advertise and it’s easy to get them confused with all the other ‘Protect’ brands in Home Security. For this reason (to avoid confusion in the future with who I have for home security) I am going to go with ADT ha. Best of luck to all others out there looking for which company is the best.
Anthony C says
Decent company, sort of blends in with the rest of them to tell you the trust. I like a good track record but if I am going to go with a large national company it will probably be ADT instead as I have heard of them and know people that use them. Thanks
Pete says
I agree man. Nothing to really bash on here just nothing to get super excited over. Their prices seem a bit much but at least they do the installation for you.
Kathryn Hill says
Like you stated, good customer service but I feel like their pricing is a bit much. I switched to Protect America (I know the name sounds the same) from what I read on your site and cut my costs by about $15 a month with most of the same features as Protection 1.
Teresa says
I agree. Their customer service is outstanding, but it’s on the pricier end of alarm systems. You don’t need all the bells and whistles to protect to your home. Go with something affordable but modest.
Alarm Reviews says
Agreed for the most part Teresa. If you are looking for affordability and modesty then check out Protect America who has quality and quantity at a great price. However, home security is one area where it doesn’t hurt to splurge a little bit to get it up and running. You are protection your loved ones and the bulk of your assets in possessions so any system under $200 really is a great deal.
Sam says
I read so much on them and I am still at a toss up. Some say they are great, others say they pay for their reputation. I am thankful for you for doing such a review but I will still continue to look around because I do not want to be stuck with a company that will screw me over.
Alarm Reviews says
Agreed Sam and good to keep looking around. If you are wanting the best reputation then go with our #2 pick, ADT.
Kelly Green says
I had no idea they required a credit check and lets just say that is the only thing that kept me from getting them. I don’t have good credit because of my husband’s car loan and that kind of screwed us over. We just got our first home and it is a shame they need good credit to have them.
Reba says
When I worked with them 2 years ago my credit was horrible and they still pushed us through. I think they use this as a means to make sure they get their money. I can’t blame them but I would try again and talk to an agent. Maybe it changed since I got them installed but I think it is worth it.
Alarm Reviews says
Sorry to hear that Kelly. For most security system companies you need 560+ credit score to qualify. If you don’t have that then look for a co-signer (parent or sibling) who will put it under their name but you can put the payment under your billing. Another option is to pay the 36 months upfront in 1 lump sum and then they will still give you the free system promotion.
Nathalie B says
They installed a Cellular Unit to transmit my signal. They did a complete system check on all of my sensors, made sure my system was in perfect working order. I transferred my service from ADT because I was not very happy. Protection 1 was very professional and avoided the hard sale. They just gave me what I asked for and great service. I also liked the fact that they have a local office here.
Debbra says
I had a issue with ADT as well giving me more then what I asked or needed and I ended up paying too much and was stuck in a contract. I switched over to Protection One asap and have been pleased since. They customize our own plan to fit your needs for your home.
Donald Hapward says
We changed our provider primarily to upgrade our system and receive additional systems: CO2 sensor, dog motion sensor and a cellular key pad. Installation turned out to be a problem with an older existing system but those problems were solved and the overall system seems to be functioning properly. Protection One installer sought out another tech who knew how to overcome the antiquated system. Both were courteous and helpful.
henry says
They have a continued effort towards innovation which I am a fan of. I don’t want to get a company who is going to stick with a touch pad control panel the rest of my life and never upgrade me to wireless. The companies that knock my door are trying to get me to sign up for those type of alarms.
Miranda says
Just got a Protection One system installed in my house after going through your detailed review. I’m highly impressed with the initial impressions of them.
At each stage, they were highly courteous and took great pains in answering each of my queries. The technicians were thoroughly professional in installing the hardware in my apartment and taught me how to operate and take care of all the things in the nicest possible manner. The initial vibes are surely good.
Debbie says
Great to hear that the technicians were professional, I’m about to get mine installed!
Bill T says
This company shocked me with a do it yourself solution, at first I didnt want to do it but once they told me that I would get all the same perks and benefits as a professional install I gave it a try, Let me tell ya, some of these features I would never expect from an alarm company.
Alarm Reviews says
Hey Bill, Protection One did roll out a DIY option for people who want it but it is not the main option. They are still primarily a Professional installation company, with thousands of employed technicians throughout the Nation. So for anyone looking at this company, remember that on the phone that it is up to you what you do although you can save money by doing it yourself but much more convenient for them to come install it for you.
Liz C. says
I was just going to post a question and ask about this. So if I did choose to install myself, I would save money, yes? But would it be a pain and get done wrong? Yes! We live in an area that seems to be getting too many break ins and I feel unsafe with my kids when my husband is away on business. We recently had to help someone with money so we are on a tight budget. Thanks for this amazing article on Protection One, they seem like the right one for me.
Alarm Reviews says
Yes, you would save $99 but it may not be worth the risks. We agree fully and recommend a professional installation company like P1 or ADT for majority of consumers.
Amy z says
I have had a Protection 1 security system for about 4 months now and I haven’t had any issues. They technician was on time for my install. I LOVE that I can activate my system from my key fob!
Lee says
I am very satisfied with their service and knowledge of their products. I would highly recommend them to protect your home. I have used them for the last 4 years and have no plans of changing my home security needs. When I leave my home my smart phone alerts me if anything is wrong.
Miguel says
I’m quite fussy when it comes to BBB ratings and it’s awesome to know the company I’m thinking of going with has a fantastic A+ on BBB. Another thing which is equally important for me is the quality and variety in equipment. Also, after reading your reviews, I can see in that area too, Protection One have started doing a much better job than before. With the latest rollout of new gadgets, they seem to have finally covered that area as well in which they were lagging behind somewhat all this while. With all things covered now, I think I can go with them without having any qualms.
Ronnie says
Excellent review. Gonna take my business to a new office premises soon and so was thinking of going with Protection One to secure my business.
Was unsure whether to go with them or not, but after reading this review and hearing some nice words about the company both online and offline, now I feel I can go with them without any hitch. Will post my experience with them here after I finally get their system installed. Thanks for the help!
Simon says
Great review about one of the best home security companies around. I can get high-grade equipment, jaw-dropping packages and other tiny or big things from other service providers too. But for me it has always been customer service over any other thing. Great customer service has been my number one reason for buying from Protection one, as I had heard great things about their CS from my friends and others online. And I’m so glad I chose them, as they didn’t disappoint. Be it through phone or email, they were really prompt in replying back to me, every single time. Legit guys!
Robin Watkins says
I worked for a Toyota dealership that used Procection1 as their security provider and they were very happy with their customer service support. I think that most of the larger companies offer similar products, but it’s the personal touch that keeps customers.
Bob says
I’m always looking for the best customer service. No matter how much you pay you should be treated like royalty! Thanks for the information.
Joanna says
Haha… Right! I two have similar thoughts in life. Service first, everything else comes second. I had cheaper options in many security companies when I went with Protection One last year but still I chose Protection One, simply because of their best in class customer service in the business.
Phillip Kawi says
It sounds a bit like the best aspect of this company is their people; their team does sound very impressive. I’m not completely sold on their equipment performance, particularly in this price range. Am I misreading this? I am interested in the “Zone” feature mentioned in the comments. That’s intriguing. If you ranked the companies, where would this one stand?
Alarm Reviews says
Hey Phillip.,
The zone feature is available with our top 2 companies ranked here. We have Protection 1 ranked at 5th currently due to they are falling behind quickly. Their customer satisfaction is dropping fast, in 2016 they are behind in equipment automation and have escalated prices again. They are also fighting hard to keep a good BBB rating now, it’s sad to see such a good company fall down the rankings.
Andrew says
You don’t get an A+ on BBB just like that. That alone is enough for most of us to go with Protection One over others. But if that wasn’t enough then according to my personal experience also, they have been a top-notch security company with high grade equipments, prompt customer service and overall nice packages. They have a strict quality control in everything and it shows.
Anderson says
I was bummed to learn that Protection 1 added summer salesmen to their force but I understand it as a way to compete against what Vivint and ADT are both already doing. I trust their sales reps much more and they have still maintained a high BBB rating after 2 years of having them out knocking doors selling their security systems so I don’t think it affects them as a company or reputation. I like P1, nothing too great or too bad stands out about them from what I’ve seen.
Connor says
You share my thoughts as well, Anderson. Wasn’t exactly ecstatic learning about Protection One too going the door-to-door salesman route. But then I thought, they are not some toddler in this business. They have a pretty great reputation at stake and would never do something which may result in them losing their terrific A+ ranking on BBB.
James says
So what did they upgrade in their equipment this year? I am comparing them to ADT and don’t care about the price as much I do as the overall grade of equipment.
Alarm Reviews says
Hey James.,
Great question. They updated their man panel to 2 gig, they now have Pan tilt cameras, Z wave and zone control (Where it turns off when your phone is within a certain reach of the home. Great feature for advanced people). ADT Pulse is going to have what your looking for in the ways of equipment but Protection 1 has a few more advanced things although you will pay about $6-8 more per month.
Jenny Krest says
I must say that the BBB rating for this company of an A+ is well deserved! We have never had any issues with this company and do recommend it when we can. We got the home security after our home was broke into after we moved into it 5 years ago and I have never felt safer with it.
Sandy says
I have mixed feelings with the BBB. I once saw on the news that companies can (and often do) pay a large fee to get a better grade. So many A+ companies, are actually more like B-. I rarely go on that. I actually ask around and I know a few people who do have Protection One and only 1 person said to avoid them. The others either liked it, or loved it.
Sean P. says
Of course it is well deserved. Maintaining an A+ on BBB is not a kid’s play.
Oscar Wilson says
I am agreeing with you Thomas. This company is a good choice and part of the reason that I kept them as my home security company was the customer service that was very helpful.
Gleason T. says
I am having a hard time getting through this review and not just going ahead and purchasing that “most popular” plan. This company offers so many options when it comes to home security that seem simple and easy to install.
Alan M. says
It’s great to hear everyone’s experiences with Protection One. Does anyone know if they offer a military discount?
Jade Long says
I would like to know that as well. My husband is in Navy and we were thinking of having a security system installed at our new house and would love to have some rebate if we can. After reading this very helpful review about Protection One’ services, we’re thinking of going with them only. My findings suggest that they are one of the best in the business as the majority of the reviews I have read of them are mostly positive.
Mike says
I’ve used Protection 1 for several years and I’m satisfied with their services. If I had to switch to a competitor, I would choose ADT just because they are cheaper and think I’ll do so if these guys don’t change their pricing plans in the near future.
Amber Lynn says
They have the best customer service for a reason… No employer goes underpaid! haha Anyways, this is likely my favorite company. Out of all the ones I have checked out, nothing beats grade A customer service. Unfortunately, the prices are higher than some others. I hope they come down in time, they care about their customers and I like that.
Jocelyn Brinkerhoff says
I really like that they actually care who they hire to enter our houses and install security systems. Very cool. Also, the ten second call guarantee is really great! They seem to really care about their customers, which I think makes up for the price. I’m not sure if I can afford this just yet though.
Alarm Reviews says
Hey Jocelyn,
Ya they have some great things — the price is pretty standard. You’ll find its less expensive than Vivint, most local companies that charge upfront for equipment etc. The home alarm companies that are cheaper then them are only by a couple of dollars a month so all in all it’s worth their better customer service in our opinion.
E. Riddle says
That’s true–it does seem they care a lot about their customers…I don’t know if it is enough to push me over the edge but I am going to give them a call!
Jay says
The one thing that truly caught my eye was the 10 second guarantee! That is unheard of, especially compared to how the majority of companies deal with customer service. That’s a definite plus in my book.
Keith W. says
Well, you cannot go wrong with a guarantee like that, can you? I thought the same thing when I saw that.
Steve Cook says
I second this it is a great guarantee and definitely helps us feel more secure. The fact that they are always adding new features is awesome as well.
James Wright says
To be honest though, I never heard of this service, but with 2 million+ customers it really helps sell it to me knowing others are with them Nationwide. Thanks for sharing!
Andrea Robinson says
I was approached by one of their salespeople years ago and came really close to going with them. A lot of people in the neighborhood did get their system and were happy with them. Their salesperson was great and I was just not in a position to buy anything at that time.
I’ve been putting off a move but will be making it sometime over the next couple of months and this info will really help. On your comparison chart, I noticed that some of the companies offer the medical alert pendants and just wondered if these guys did? Thanks!
Alarm Reviews says
Hi Andrea, Protection One does offer a Medical pendant and it doesn’t increase their monthly cost for it. Thanks and best of luck to you!
Joseph Birchall says
I’ve used Protection one for 4 years now. Never really had a problem with them but always felt they are pretty average. From what I have seen lately is they came out with new yard signs and a new logo (no more diamond) and have gotten some better equipment. However, I am still left with an older security system unless I cancel them which I might do and then get back with them 6 months later. They are Parr with the other companies but are working on standing out more.
Andrea Robinson says
Hi, Joseph. It seems to me that Protect America is cheaper. I was just wondering if price was a consideration for you and if you switched away from Protection One for 6 months, would you be looking for a cheaper company or about the same?