When installing alarm monitoring services for your home, you have 2 options for how your system connects to the monitoring provider: Landline: A hardwired system that physically connects to the phone line. Cellular: A wireless system that connects via cellular signal. Not sure which one will be best for your home? At Alert Protective, we […]
Alert Protective Blog
DIY Security vs. Professionally-Installed Security: Which Is Best for Chicago Homeowners?
Homeowners in Chicago have two options when it comes to residential security: They can install the system themselves, or… They can have a local professional install a security system for them The question on many homeowner’s minds today is whether a clear winner has presented itself. Has one installation option outpaced the other in safety, […]
What Is Access Control? A Chicago Security Expert Explains
Access control is a commercial security measure whereby a company manages employee and visitor access to a property through credentials and internal protocols. The most basic form of access control is a key that opens a lock. However, today’s access control systems are immensely more powerful, combining game-changing technologies like remote access, facial recognition and […]
A Chicago Security Pro Explains: What Is Home Automation?
Our security technicians in Chicago get asked this question a lot: What exactly is home automation? And what does it have to do with smart homes? Here’s the answer: home automation is a feature of the modern smart home whereby residents can automate specific tasks around the home. Some examples of home automation include: A […]
How Much Does It Cost to Install & Monitor a Home Security System in Chicago?
Let’s say a homeowner wants to purchase a brand new home security system and have it professionally monitored. What’s that system going to cost them if they buy it in Chicago? When it comes to pricing, you need to make sure you know what you’re getting for your money. Realistically, the price will vary from […]
What’s the Best Home Security System? A Chicago Security Expert Explains
When it comes to home security systems, “best” is subjective. Others may try to tell you different. But based on our experience, it’s the truth. Here’s why there’s no “best” security system: a Chicago homeowner could purchase the latest security cameras, video doorbells, smart lighting and cellular monitoring. But if the system isn’t customized to […]
Does Home Insurance Cover Break-Ins in Chicago?
If you’re a homeowner living in Chicago, you’re in luck: homeowners insurance does in fact cover real property (damage to the home) and personal property (theft or damage to personal goods) in the event of a break-in. That’s the good news. But this is insurance we’re talking about here. Which means that coverage is going […]
Signs Your Home Security System Isn’t Working Properly
When you invest in security camera installation in Chicago, you want to ensure that your system is working properly at all times. You don’t want there to be a flaw in your system that ultimately leads to putting your family in danger. Here are some telltale signs that your system is not working the way […]
Tips for Protecting Your Home While on Vacation
With the winter weather still in full effect, it’s only natural to want to escape to a vacation once in awhile. While you are gone, make sure that you are taking the necessary steps to keep your home protected, as the last thing that you want is to come back from a vacation only to […]
Signs Your Chicago Home Security System Isn’t Working

Security systems are meant to create a comfortable and safe environment for homeowners, but when your home security system in your Chicago home stops working, this secure feeling may fade. Without a working home security system, threats may go undetected and leave you at risk. The following signs are tell tale signs that that is […]