Wi-Fi alarm and monitoring systems

Trade 4.0: Wi-Fi alarm systems offer a flexible and cost-effective way to protect business premises. But what do they do? What are the advantages and disadvantages? And how are the systems protected against attacks?

This article is part of the special feature on digital craftsmanship.

Wi-Fi alarm systems promise cost-effective protection and quick installation . This is why these systems are enjoying increasing popularity: According to a Bitkom survey from August 2024, 21 percent of Germans already use smart video surveillance and 18 percent use smart alarm systems . As an additional security measure – alongside structural and mechanical burglary protection – these systems can also offer a flexible retrofit solution for trades businesses . Workshops, offices, warehouses, showrooms, and sales areas are tempting targets for burglars: Besides valuable tools, they often suspect that expensive materials, IT equipment, or cash are hidden there .

Comprehensive protection


Modern Wi-Fi alarm systems now include all the essential components for comprehensive security : from motion and glass break detectors to cameras , door and window sensors , smoke and vibration detectors , and indoor and outdoor sirens – including connectivity options to professional security services. A major advantage of Wi-Fi alarm systems lies in their flexibility: the battery-powered sensors can be placed anywhere without the need for wiring. This saves time, reduces installation costs, and enables comprehensive monitoring of buildings and outdoor areas in a very short time.

Conveniently, images from cameras or smart doorbells are instantly accessible on smartphones anywhere . In case of danger, users also benefit from real-time notifications via smartphone, tablet, or email . Furthermore, the systems can be expanded modularly as needed, allowing businesses to adapt their systems to future requirements at any time.

Challenge for hackers


Photo: © Thomas Busch

A potential drawback of smart alarm systems is their dependence on the stability of the Wi-Fi signal . However, these systems don't use the company's Wi-Fi network, but instead create their own network via a base station, into which the sensors are integrated. Nevertheless, interference in this wireless network can lead to false alarms or limited functionality . The fear that hackers could infiltrate and manipulate the system is unlikely with better models: Modern Wi-Fi alarm systems have a variety of security features , such as end-to-end encryption and intrusion detection , which identifies and prevents unauthorized access via the internet. Many systems also have tamper protection for the base station and sensors . For example, if burglars try to remove the batteries from a sensor, an immediate notification is usually sent to the alarm app. The same happens if a sensor's Wi-Fi connection is lost for any other reason.

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Even with signal jammers, these systems are not easily disabled : Alarm systems typically use multiple communication channels, such as Ethernet, Wi-Fi, cellular networks, or the Jeweller radio technology. If individual channels are disrupted or fail completely, the alarm app usually displays an immediate notification. Some systems even continue to function during power outages: Integrated batteries often allow them to bridge the gap for up to 24 hours.

Missing certifications


Unfortunately, comparing Wi-Fi alarm systems is significantly hampered because some manufacturers forgo expensive certification. However, non-certified systems aren't necessarily inferior – tests conducted by specialist magazines provide valuable insights. Even without certification, Wi-Fi alarm systems can deter thieves , ensure a rapid police response, and support subsequent investigations through video or audio recordings. Certified security, on the other hand, is only offered by Wi-Fi alarm systems that meet at least the DIN EN 50131-1 Grade 2 standard or VdS Class A. Installation and maintenance of these systems should always be carried out by a qualified professional.

Checklist: Buying a new Wi-Fi alarm system

Object: Which areas need to be protected (e.g., office, workshop, company premises, vehicles, warehouse)?

Risk analysis: What potential dangers exist (e.g., vandalism, unauthorized entry, theft of valuables, materials or tools)?

Protection objectives: What should the system achieve (e.g., real-time monitoring, deterrence, immediate alerting, evidence preservation)?

Wi-Fi: Does the installation location offer good Wi-Fi coverage, or are Wi-Fi extenders necessary? Does the alarm system offer secure WPA2 or WPA3 encryption?

Sensors: Which and how many sensors are needed indoors and outdoors (e.g., door/window contacts, motion detectors, sirens, smoke detectors, water, glass breakage, panic button, etc.)

Camera selection: Are indoor cameras sufficient, or are weatherproof outdoor cameras also needed?

Night vision: Do the cameras have infrared LEDs or Starlight technology for good images in the dark?

Motion detection: Should the camera be able to independently distinguish between people, animals, and vehicles to minimize false alarms?

Audio function: Do the cameras have integrated microphones for sound recording and speakers for addressing intruders?

Alarm functions: Which alarm types are desired (e.g., indoor and outdoor sirens, push notifications via smartphone or email, connection to a professional security service)?

Backup: How should video and audio recordings be stored (e.g., locally via SD card, on a network video recorder, or in the cloud with subscription fees)?

Power supply: Should the alarm system remain operational for several hours even during power outages (e.g., via battery or solar panel)?

Certification: Does the system comply with the DIN EN 50131-1 Grade 2 standard or VDS Class A for certified safety?

Operation: Is it necessary to train employees in the operation and maintenance of the systems? Should contact details for support and troubleshooting tips be provided?

Legal certainty: Are all requirements of the GDPR as well as those from the areas of occupational safety and neighbor law met?

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