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Q: I have cable TV, cable Internet and cable telephone service. All three with a cable company. I also have a home security system, but with a different fixed line. The question is, if I pass the phone cable to a VoIP system, VoIP will perform my security system Home
A: This is a great question. Given the popularity of both technologies, we imagine that many people are wondering how security systems work with VoIP. For an answer, we went to the source: Security companies and VoIP service providers. Fortunately, they all seem to agree. Unfortunately, it seems that you should have a fixed line:
First home security provider ADT recommends that VoIP users hold on their regular phones to ensure better security. The problem is that VoIP will not work during a power failure, so even if the security system has a battery backup, your home network probably will not. ADT offers its customers call 1-800-ADT-ASAP before switching to VoIP to see if a VoIP provider meets their approval standards.
Security ICC also recommends that customers keep their lines, not only because of power outages, but also because of network outages.
Some home security systems can offer other means of communication. Reliance Protection / VOXCOM provides wireless communication option, and others can also. Contact your home security company to see if they offer a similar cellular solution.
VoIP service providers also suggest that you hold on your landline phone. Vonage states in their FAQ they do not recommend the use of their service with a home security system.
Thus, despite the advantages of lower costs of VoIP, there may be a problem for some technologies, not just for security systems but also other devices such as fax machines and some Tivos. Indeed, the electronic signals that are destined to go on a voice line are changed when they go over IP.
Even with a landline, VoIP can still save you a lot of money, depending on your use of the phone (see our reviews to see how). With such low starting plans $ 8.33 per month for unlimited calling in the US and Canada (on an annual contract), you will save more than enough to justify the old analogue telephone line you need to your security system.
Is there hope? Between the growing popularity of VoIP and the ubiquity of cell phones, this is likely to change in the future. A company called uControl is the introduction of a device that will replace your current security system control panel and offer a cellular connection (with broadband and a landline optional). But so far they do not seem to be for sale to individuals. You'll be able to see it as an option offered by communications providers.
For more on VoIP, visit our VoIP reviews and comparisons.