Will VoIP work with my security system?

Posted by kent on August 11th, 2009

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The following post in our Reader Question series is an actual user submitted question. To maintain the integrity of the original question, we do not edit or change reader questions in any way.

Q: I have Cable TV, Cable Internet and Cable Phone service. All three with one cable company. I also have a Home Security System but with a different landline. The question is, if I switch from Cable Phone to a VoIP System, will VoIP effect my Home Security System ?

A: That's a great question. Given the popularity of both technologies, we imagine a lot of people are wondering how security systems will work with VoIP. For an answer, we went to the sources: the security companies and the VoIP providers. Fortunately, they all seem to agree. Unfortunately, it looks like you should have a landline:

Leading home security provider ADT recommends that VoIP users hold onto their regular landlines in order to ensure the best security. The concern is that VoIP will not function during a power outage, so even while the security system has a battery backup, your home networking probably does not. ADT suggests its customers call 1-800-ADT-ASAP before a switch to VoIP to find out if a VoIP provider meets their approval standards.

CPI Security also recommends that customers hold onto their landlines, not only because of power outages but also because of network outages.

Some home security systems may offer alternative means of communication. Reliance Protection/VOXCOM offers a wireless communications option, and others may too. Contact your home security company to see if they offer a similar cellular solution.

VoIP providers also suggest that you hold onto your landline. Vonage states in their FAQ that they don't recommend using their service with a home security system.

So, despite the cost-saving advantages of VoIP, it can present a problem for some technologies, and not just for security systems but also other devices like fax machines and some TIVOs. That's because electronic signals that are meant to go over 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 phone usage (check out our reviews to see how much). With plans starting as low as $8.33 per month for unlimited calling in the US and Canada (on an annual contract), you'll save more than enough to justify that old analog phone line you need for your security system.

Is there hope? Between the increasing popularity of VoIP and the ubiquity of cel phones, this is likely to change in the future. A company called uControl is introducing a device which will replace your current security system's control panel and offer a cellular connection (along with broadband and an optional land line). But so far, these don't seem to be for sale to individuals. You may soon see it as an option offered by communications providers.

To learn more about VoIP, check out our VoIP reviews and comparisons.

• 3 tips for VoIP 911 calls
• New legislation gives all VoIP subscribers access to standard 911 services
• Does Vonage offer cell service?
• T-Mobile launches discount VoIP service with a few big downsides
• 2008 VoIP trend alert – VoIP services let consumers keep traditional phone service too