If the Internet Goes Out, Does My Wireless Security System Still Work?

To keep working during a power outage, wireless home security systems must be able to switch to a cellular connection. This is a common feature in most of our top home security picks, but sometimes it costs extra.

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Home security systems communicate with the monitoring center via a landline phone, internet (VoIP, Ethernet, Wi-Fi), or cellular connection. 

If your home security system communicates with a monitoring center via internet, your alarm system would no longer be connected to them should you lose internet connectivity.

Cellular connections offer better reliability for connecting your alarm system with a monitoring company. Like a cellular phone, these types of home security systems use specific radio frequencies to maintain communication with cellular transmitters in outage situations.

Cellular connections are unaffected by internet outages. A system with cellular backup keeps all of your alarms up and running if the internet goes out. You may have to pay for a higher-tier monitoring plan to get this perk.

Some areas of the country get poor cellular service. If that's the case where you live, choose a landline- or internet-based security system for best results.

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• What Happens to My Alarm Monitoring If My Phone Line Is Cut?
• Can I Get a Home Security System Without a Phone Line?
• If the Power Goes Out, Does My Security System Still Work?
• What Are Common Components of a Security System?