Fortunly's Guide
Advertiser Disclosure

Best Business Security Systems

Written By
G. Dautovic
Updated
December 01,2024
Some or all of the products/services listed on this page are from our affiliate partners from which we receive commissions. This, however, does not influence the evaluations in our reviews. Learn more by reading our Advertiser Disclosure.

As a business owner, you know that security is key. You need to protect your assets, employees, and customers. That's why it's important to invest in a good security system. But what option to choose among plenty of business security systems on the market? How do you choose the right one for your company? Here, we'll explore a wide offer from prominent security companies and help you pick the right security package for your company.

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Best Business Security Systems of December 2024

Best for: Professional Solutions

Vivint

Fortunly's Rating: Our editorial team determines the rating based on a set of evaluation criteria developed for each product and service category.

Vivint Logo
OVERVIEW

Vivint is rated highly on our list for a good reason. The company is known for its top-of-the-line equipment, attention to customer needs, and not making compromises on your security. Read more

  • Great mobile apps
  • Alexa and Google Assistant integration
  • Smart Drive local storage
Price starts at:
$550+
Installation:
Professional
Monitoring:
Yes
Automation:
Yes
Smart home integration:
Yes
Monitoring costs:
$19.99 – $44.99 per month
Contract required:
Yes
Storage:
Local
Best for: DIY Solutions

SimpliSafe

Fortunly's Rating: Our editorial team determines the rating based on a set of evaluation criteria developed for each product and service category.

SimpliSafe Logo
OVERVIEW

SimpliSafe equipment is incredibly easy to set up and can keep security system costs for a business affordable. A comprehensive monitoring plan is also available. Read more

  • Flexible options
  • Large wireless systems
  • Video surveillance
Price starts at:
$504.86
Installation:
DIY, Professional
Monitoring:
Yes
Automation:
Yes
Smart home integration:
Yes
Monitoring costs:
$0.33 - $0.93 per day
Contract required:
No
Storage:
Cloud
Best for: Customization

ADT

Fortunly's Rating: Our editorial team determines the rating based on a set of evaluation criteria developed for each product and service category.

ADT Logo
OVERVIEW

ADT has been in the security industry for more than a century. Anyone looking for a reliable company to take care of their business won’t make a mistake by installing their security solutions. Read more

  • Renowned in the security industry
  • Voice control
  • Highly customizable systems
Price starts at:
$400+
Installation:
Professional
Monitoring:
Yes
Automation:
Yes
Smart home integration:
Yes
Monitoring costs:
$45.99 – $59.99 per month
Contract required:
Yes
Storage:
Local, Cloud
Best for: High-Quality Cameras

Lorex

Fortunly's Rating: Our editorial team determines the rating based on a set of evaluation criteria developed for each product and service category.

Lorex Logo
OVERVIEW

Lorex is a Canadian company also operating in the US. It’s known for producing professional-grade security cameras that can be easily integrated into complex security systems and scale to the needs of large businesses. Read more

  • Excellent selection of cameras
  • Multiple video storage options
  • Easy to upscale
Price starts at:
$599.99
Installation:
DIY, Professional
Monitoring:
Personal
Automation:
Yes
Smart home integration:
Yes
Monitoring costs:
N/A
Contract required:
No
Storage:
Local, Cloud
Best for: Budget Security Solutions

Frontpoint

Fortunly's Rating: Our editorial team determines the rating based on a set of evaluation criteria developed for each product and service category.

Frontpoint Logo
OVERVIEW

Among business alarm companies, Frontpoint stands out for its flexible security systems, 24/7 professional monitoring, and great equipment. It’s little wonder that this company has numerous glowing online user reviews and a respectable 4.4 stars on Trustpilot. Read more

  • No contract is needed if you purchase the equipment
  • System redundancies
  • Intuitive DIY installation
Price starts at:
$129+
Installation:
DIY
Monitoring:
Yes
Automation:
Yes
Smart home integration:
Yes
Monitoring costs:
$1.64 per day
Contract required:
Yes
Storage:
Cloud
Best for: Multiple Sites

Vector Security

Fortunly's Rating: Our editorial team determines the rating based on a set of evaluation criteria developed for each product and service category.

Vector Security Logo
OVERVIEW

Vector Security systems can adapt to any industry and even to businesses running in multiple locations. This makes it perfect for companies that need to cover multiple venues - just be aware that the company has somewhat limited coverage in the US. Read more

  • Can adapt to a wide range of businesses
  • Managed services
  • Smart security equipment
Price starts at:
Contact for a quote
Installation:
Professional
Monitoring:
Yes
Automation:
Yes
Smart home integration:
Yes
Monitoring costs:
$44.95 – $69.95 per month
Contract required:
Yes
Storage:
Local, Cloud
Quick Breakdown:

Top 5 Business Security Systems - Our Picks for 2024:

  • Vivint

  • SimpliSafe

  • ADT

  • Lorex

  • Frontpoint

Evaluation Criteria

How To Choose a Business Security System

When it comes to securing your business, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The type of security system you need will depend on factors such as the size and layout of your premises, the value of your inventory, and your working hours. 

The selection and security options vary anywhere from DIY kits to comprehensive networks of wired sensors, cameras, and smart security systems. 

To help you find appropriate business security, we’ve analyzed the essential elements you need to consider before making a decision.

Installation

Some companies recognize that you want to be fully in charge of your own security system, including the installation process. Because of that, many of them have a do-it-yourself approach, with components that are easy to attach to walls, door frames, or windows without having to use a drill or other tools. 

DIY solutions often don’t require any kind of wiring, as they are battery-powered and wireless systems. Some even include self-adhesive tape, further simplifying the setup of the security system. 

Small offices are most suitable for this type of security, especially if they don’t hold any inventory, or other valuables, except for the office equipment. 

Professionally installed office security systems are more adaptable. Based on your workplace layout, experts analyze where the vulnerable break-in points are, put in sensors, and place cameras to cover all the angles. 

Such systems are often more sophisticated and require more time to install because of all the drilling, wiring, and setup involved. While this is a more expensive option, knowing that the job was done professionally is worth the extra cost.

Ease of Use

You'll be using your small business security system daily, so it's vital to ensure that it's easy to use. This includes things like being able to arm and disarm the system quickly with your smartphone app and knowing how it works.

The best way to assess how easy a security system is to use is to ask for a demo and see for yourself. This will allow you to see how it works first-hand and decide if it’s the right fit for you.

Security

What kind of equipment you’ll need will mostly depend on the scale of your business. 

Consider the layout of your premises. If you have a large property, you'll need enough CCTV cameras to cover all entry points and sensors inside the premises. If you have a small office, you will likely be fine with a simpler system with a single doorbell camera and a few motion sensors.

Next, think about the value of your inventory. If you store high-value items, you'll need a commercial security system that can detect a break-in, fire, flooding, or determine CO levels. It might include smoke detectors, motion sensors, and CCTV cameras.

Finally, consider the hours of operation for your business and when you’ll need the alarms enabled. You may opt for an alarm that can be programmed to go off at a specific time or motion-activated lights.

Costs

There's no easy answer regarding how much you should spend on a security system for your business. However, there are a few things to keep in mind that can help you decide.

Remember that security is an investment. The more you spend on a quality system, the more protection you'll have against theft, vandalism, and various hazards. 

Don't skimp on features. Appropriate security for a business will include motion and thermal sensors, smoke detectors, cameras, and alarms that can all work together to deter criminals and keep your property safe. Be sure to factor in the cost of professional installation and a subscription to a monitoring service.

While DIY security systems are tempting for their lower price, it's worth paying for professional help to ensure that everything is installed correctly and works properly.

Monitoring Service

With smart security systems, you can receive push notifications on your smartphone about a break-in or fire. However, you won’t be available 24/7 to react to those notifications. 

That’s why many companies with security systems offer round-the-clock monitoring services for a monthly subscription. The main benefit of these is that you or the authorities can get informed on time if there’s a need to react. 

Warranty

When investing in a security system for a business, it's essential to make sure that it comes with a warranty. This will help protect your investment if the system breaks or malfunctions.

Most reputable companies offer some type of warranty on their products, so be sure to ask about this before purchasing them.

Detailed Reviews of Business Security Systems

Vivint

Vivint Logo Learn More

On Official Website

Price starts at:
contact for a quote
Installation:
Professional
Monitoring:
Yes
Storage:
Local
  • 24/7 professional monitoring
  • In-house team for security installation
  • Remote access

Vivint is a publicly-traded company well known for its commercial security systems. Usage of the latest technology, professional component installation included in the price, and excellent Android and iOS apps are the main reasons we rate Vivint so high on our list. 

The company offers a professional installation service, so you don’t have to worry if your DIY solution is configured correctly. Vivint’s Smart Home Pros team takes care of setting up your security, and it's not delegated to third-party contractors. 

The team takes care of all the necessary wiring, finding ideal spots for the equipment, syncing devices, and testing the system. Furthermore, installation is included with your alarm system.

Vivint’s installation professionals will also instruct you on how to use the security system and explain all the features that come with its products. This is necessary since the company has a range of products perfect for creating a customized system to protect your employees, business, and inventory. 

Wireless motion detectors and sensors placed on doors and windows can effectively detect and prevent burglary. Vivint also has smart cameras that can detect movement, packages, and even react to motion.

The doorbell camera has a 180 by 180-degree viewing angle, infrared night vision, and a 65 dB speaker with a whistle alarm and a red ring light that turns on if the system detects movement.  

Vivint’s system will equip you with video surveillance, alarms, and a smart hub that you can access and control through mobile apps. 

Furthermore, the company offers a 24/7 monitoring service and contacts you or emergency services like the police, fire department, or medical responders. Vivint provides security solutions for retail, restaurants, industrial operations, car shops, and office spaces.

The company has various sensors that can detect motion or windows breakage, monitor entries, smoke, fire, CO, and water. Outdoor cameras have 4K HD sensors capable of 1080p video streaming and recording with a lens that allows for a 140-degree view. 

Cameras also have night vision and built-in deterrent systems like doorbell cameras. This, along with voice control and stored videos with a Smart Drive, can create a secure perimeter for businesses of any size.  

Any business that decides to use Vivint’s system won’t regret it. Almost 20,000 positive Trustpilot reviews reflect how consistently the company provides excellent service. 

You’ll have to contact the company for a quote to get the exact pricing. Professional round-the-clock monitoring starts at $19.99. If you are transferring your security system, Vivint can reinstall it for a fee of $49.99 to $100. 

With the premium service, you also get an extended warranty. Vivint’s Smart Drive storage will cost you an additional $249.

+ Show more

SimpliSafe

SimpliSafe Logo Learn More

On Official Website

Price starts at:
$504.86
Installation:
DIY, Professional
Monitoring:
Yes
Storage:
Cloud
  • Money-back guarantee
  • Cellular backup
  • Multiple alerts and push notifications

SimpliSafe, a Boston-based company founded in 2006, is well known for offering excellent DIY security packages that can act as great alarm systems. The company has affordable equipment that business owners on a tight budget will appreciate. 

Installing a SimpliSafe security system requires no tools or drilling to set up. The most comprehensive pre-packed system, called The Haven, consists of a base station, a wireless keypad, entry and motion sensors, a 105 dB siren, a panic button, a smoke detector, and temperature and water sensors.

SimpliSafe advises placing the base station in a central location and plugging it into a wall socket. It has a battery, so it can operate for some time even if there’s a power outage. 

If you don’t want to install the equipment yourself, the company will put you in touch with a certified professional that can do the job for you. It doesn’t directly employ installation technicians but you can get help if you need it. 

SimpliSafe offers wireless 1080p cameras with a 140-degree field of view. It also has night vision in full color, with an in-built spotlight and an impressive 8x digital zoom. 

Another great thing about the system is that, with some monitoring plans, the camera can notify you of relevant activity as the system can distinguish between animals, vehicles, and people. Additionally, you can customize the area you want to monitor for specific activities such as animal intrusions. 

SimpliSafe also has doorbell cameras with a 162-degree angle, two-way communication, and similar features to outdoor cameras. Indoor variants are recommended for comprehensive business security solutions, and with a monitoring plan, you also get access to recording and 30-day video storage. 

Pin pads and smart lock systems are convenient for office spaces, and SimpliSafe Smart Lock does a great job here. You won’t have to worry if your place of business is locked as the door can automatically lock on a timer or alert you if it gets unlocked.

Furthermore, you can use a PIN, phone, or key fob to unbolt or bolt your door with SimpliSafe Smart Lock.

SimpliSafe’s service don’t require you to sign a contract. Most business security systems will opt for the Interactive Monitoring plan with 24/7 monitoring and will contact the emergency services as needed. 

For just $0.93 per day, you also get unlimited recordings for up to ten cameras, video alarm verification, and an extended warranty on your equipment. With the Self Monitoring available on the Camera Recordings plan, you get a warranty of up to a year and live view from your cameras. 

It’s worth mentioning that with SimpliSafe’s comprehensive monitoring plan, you also get access to home insurance discounts. We recommend finding insurance companies that adjust the insurance policy if your home has smoke and water monitoring. 

The Haven DIY commercial security system is well worth it for the price of $504.86 and the Interactive Monitoring service. Even if you don’t find it to your liking, you have 60 days to change your mind and return it for a full refund.

+ Show more

ADT

ADT Logo Learn More

On Official Website

Price starts at:
$400+
Installation:
Professional
Monitoring:
Yes
Storage:
Local, Cloud
  • US-based monitoring centers
  • Industry adjusted solutions
  • Free risk assessment

ADT is a company with over 140 years of experience in the industry. As one of the largest and most well-known security companies globally, it is trusted by millions of people. 

ADT's security system is reliable and efficient. It offers plenty of flexibility and can be custom-tailored to your company's specific requirements.

The security system installation is simple and straightforward. The company will schedule an assessment and send a technician to your business premises to conduct a survey and assess your specific security needs for free.

ADT's alarm systems are convenient for various office spaces, restaurants, retail, car services, warehouses, manufacturers, health, and wellness. The cost of a professional installation is $99, and you get access to thoroughly tested equipment that forms a comprehensive security network. 

With ADT, it's straightforward to use the system to improve worker safety, manage access, secure inventory, meet compliance requirements, and protect your business from crime. You can combine monitoring services with smart security, video surveillance, access control panels, and various sensors to tailor the security network toward your needs. 

ADT’s systems include cameras that can function in low-light conditions and capture video if the system detects motion in a 1080p quality. You can watch the live feed from your cameras and review recorded clips from a smartphone application. 

However, compared to Vivint or SimpliSafe, cameras lack some theft deterrent features and two-way communication, even on the doorbell cameras. 

The off-site video cloud storage is a great feature and complements the company’s local storage solution. Cloud storage is also encrypted, but you can access it easily through your account. It’s a handy backup for all your video files in case of a local incident or if you simply lose them.

For local storage, an ADT professional will recommend whether you should use a digital or a network video recorder system.

ADT has three plans you can choose for video storage, including Interactive Video, Local Video, and Cloud Storage.

With smart technology, you can automate certain portions of your business, such as climate and lighting controls. Smart plugs also make it easy to control small appliances remotely. 

If you want an exact price, you’ll have to contact the company for a free quote. However, most home systems range from $0.33 to $0.83 per day without a monitoring service. Pro monitoring monthly subscriptions go from $45.99 to $59.99, depending on your equipment and the features you need.

+ Show more

Lorex

Lorex Logo Learn More

On Official Website

Price starts at:
$599.99
Installation:
DIY, Professional
Monitoring:
Personal
Storage:
Local, Cloud
  • Special offer for nonprofits
  • Best choice for high-grade cameras
  • No professional monitoring service

Lorex was founded in 1991 and is a leader in the security industry in producing cameras of the highest quality, capable of recording in 4K.

The company is constantly innovating and, in 2020, introduced its Fusion project, merging all available equipment into a user-friendly experience through the Lorex Home App. 

The company recently released 2K wireless cameras with all the advanced features we’ve seen with its competitors. For example, their pan-tilt camera has 360-degree coverage, color night vision, two-way communication, warning lights, a siren, and a 2.4 GHz wireless connection.

However, if you prefer to have a wired connection, you can use an ethernet cable to connect to a Fusion-enabled recorder. 

Lorex’s security system requires no monthly fees. It’s easy to install and has a central control hub from a Wireless Touch NVR. The hub has multiple convenient features that make your life easier, such as biometric or passcode screen unlock, a single point to turn all cameras on or off, mute microphones of your security components, or use the system in offline mode.

The smart system is compatible with Amazon Alexa and can take voice instructions from Google Assistant. Alternatively, you can control your system from your iOS or Android phone with various Lorex apps. 

If you have a large area to cover, you can use range extenders to increase the space a single hub can cover. Your security network can include door and window sensors, doorbell cameras, floodlights, and other equipment Lorex has available. 

Since you can customize the alarm system, the pricing also varies greatly. Most modern business owners need a suite of smart features rather than a barebones video surveillance solution. 

That’s why the Lorex Smart Home Security Center L871T8E-E has a ton of compatible devices. It costs $199.99 and, depending on the equipment it’s bundled with, the price is anywhere between $299.99 to $759.99. You can customize what equipment you pair with the control center, but keep compatibility in mind. 

Lorex’s commercial alarm systems are available for nonprofit organizations at a discount price. The company also donates a percentage of the net profit from purchases to local charities, and it’s open to organizations in the US and Canada.

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Frontpoint

Frontpoint Logo Learn More

On Official Website

Price starts at:
$129+
Installation:
DIY
Monitoring:
Yes
Storage:
Cloud
  • Highly regarded by users
  • Two-way camera communication
  • Straightforward to install

In the past few years, Frontpoint has emerged as a significant presence in the security industry. The company offers DIY commercial security systems, practical solutions for businesses, and monitoring services and can compete with other brands like Vivint, SimpliSafe, and ADT.

Business owners can expect that the security equipment for their workspace will include alarm systems, video surveillance, 24/7 monitoring, remote access, smart systems, and hazard protection. You don’t rent the equipment from Frontpoint. Instead, you buy it and pay a monthly subscription for the monitoring service. 

Frontpoint Touchscreen has an HD display and pairs wirelessly with the Frontpoint Hub, the center of your security system. It has a dual cellular and Wi-Fi connection and a battery that can keep the system running for 24 hours before going offline to account for signal losses and power outages.

Besides using the mobile app, you can also control the system with the Frontpoint Keypad. You can assign multiple access codes and make use of multiple keypads with a single security hub. 

You can use the control system to regulate temperature, open or close locks, and control lights. It also has a panic button, making it easy to report an emergency. On top of that, you can program the touchscreen to serve as a picture frame. You’re not limited to a single-screen interface, as Frontpoint Hub supports a connection with up to four screens. 

Frontpoint Outdoor Camera has 1080p HDR resolution, with excellent night vision. You can also automate the camera's audio and visual response if someone enters its customizable outdoor perimeter. 

The camera’s field of view is 117-degrees horizontally and 65-degrees vertically, and it has an IP66 rating for dust and rain protection. The camera will require you to plug it into a power socket, and you’ll have to drill to anchor it in place. However, it’s wirelessly connected to the hub. 

Prices of Frontpoint's systems vary. There is currently a discount of 40% and 67% on specific packages. 

The most affordable one is “The Safehouse,” containing the hub, doorbell camera, two window/door sensors, a motion sensor, and a home defense kit for $129. 

“The Fortress” plan is the most expensive one at $478.73 if you don’t add additional sensors and cameras to the bundle. All plans offer a monitoring service at $1.64 per day, including Frontpoint ID Protect, a free service protecting users from online identity and financial fraud. 

+ Show more

Vector Security

Vector Security Logo Learn More

On Official Website

Price starts at:
Contact for a quote
Installation:
Professional
Monitoring:
Yes
Storage:
Local, Cloud
  • Useful for large business
  • Storage option redundancies
  • Lackluster user rating

Vector Security is a Pittsburgh-based company with over half a century of experience providing commercial security services for homeowners and businesses. It also offers small and large-scale solutions for businesses of all sizes and industries. 

Vector Security includes professional installation with all systems, including those meant for homes or businesses. Most premade security packages include sensors for windows and doors, motion detectors, monitoring, a doorbell camera, and a wireless control panel. 

As a business owner, you’ll appreciate having the option of adjusting what kind of equipment you need for your business with a personal quote from Vector Security. 

The company’s security system can cover all areas you’ll need. Vector Security’s Outdoor cameras record and stream video in 1080p with an 88-degree angle.

While the cameras perform decently in low-light environments, being able to record in infrared for up to 40 feet, they have no deterrent systems or two-way communication.

Indoor cameras have similar specifications but lack the IR range for recording video in the dark.

You can easily store all video recordings on the Stream Video Recorder’s 1 TB storage, a compact storage solution with Western Digital’s Purple Series SATA HDD. You can have up to eight cameras connected with the device and set it up to record events that trigger your company’s security system.

You can save on utility expenses by turning your office into a smart office with equipment provided by Vector Security. IQ Panel 2 Plus is a central point of the security system. It can pair up with cameras, sensors, thermostats, garage openers, smart lighting, smart power outlets, and other equipment and serve as a focal point for all of them. 

You’ll have to contact the company for a direct quote to get an exact price, as each workplace requires a specifically tailored solution. However, home plans can give you an idea of what you can expect.

Home plans require a three-year contract, and the most affordable one is $44.95 per month. The other two are priced at $59.95 and $69.95 per month and have one-time fees of $99 and $149. 

While the company has interesting solutions for businesses that operate in multiple locations, it has room to improve compared to our top choices. Currently, the company needs to work on improving its customer relations, as reflected by its poor Trustpilot rating.

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Why Invest in a Business Security System

Small businesses and startups often lack the resources to implement comprehensive security systems. As such, they are more vulnerable to crime, including everything from burglary and theft to vandalism and cyber attacks. Hazards and floods are no exception either.

Fortunately, if you shop around, you can still find an affordable security system, and the business you’re running can use it to dramatically increase its security and environmental hazard protection. 

Insurance for Small Business

Security alarms and systems for business can effectively deter criminals and keep your employees and property safe. They can also help reduce costs and get you better deals for insuring your small business

By installing a security system, you are showing your insurance company that you are taking steps to protect your business, which will lead to lower insurance rates. 

Keep in mind that you might have to have a 24/7 monitoring plan active to be eligible for lowering the cost of your insurance. 

Investing in a Small Business Home Office

With the workforce increasingly moving to a work-from-home model the lines between office space and home are starting to blur. If you are such an entrepreneur, you should examine the types of security systems for business use you can utilize for your home operation, especially if you are storing expensive inventory in the same location. 

The additional benefit of investing in a security system you are installing in your home is that it makes you eligible for home improvement loans with favorable terms. Most security system implementations create a smart home by using thermostats, various sensors, automatic locks, etc.