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 topic Digital Crafts

Wi-Fi alarm systems promise cost-effective protection and quick installation. That is why the systems are enjoying increasing popularity: According to a Bitkom-Survey from August 2024 already use 21 percent of Germans have smart video surveillance and 18 percent have smart alarm systemsAs an additional security measure – in addition to structural and mechanical burglary protection measures – the systems can also provide a flexible solution for retrofitting Because workshops, offices, warehouses, exhibition and sales rooms are a tempting target: Here, thieves suspect Valuable tools often also include expensive materials, IT equipment or cash.

Comprehensive protection


Current WLAN alarm systems now include all important components for comprehensive protection: from Motion and glass break detectors over Cameras, Door and window sensors, Smoke and vibration detectors to Outdoor and indoor sirens - included Connection options to professional security servicesA major advantage of WLAN alarm systems is their flexibility: The battery-operated sensors can placed anywhere without the need for any cabling work. This saves time, reduces installation costs and enables in the shortest possible time a comprehensive monitoring of buildings and outdoor areas.

Practical: The image from the cameras or smart doorbells is instantly accessible on smartphones anywhereIn case of danger, users also benefit from Real-time notifications via smartphone, tablet or email. In addition, the systems can be expanded modularly as needed, allowing companies to adapt their systems to future requirements at any time.

Challenge for hackers


Photo: © Thomas Busch

A potential disadvantage of smart alarm systems is the Dependence on the stability of the WLAN signalHowever, the systems do not use the company's own Wi-Fi, but instead create their own network via a base station, into which the sensors are integrated. Disturbances in this radio network may lead to false alarms or limited functionalityThe fear that hackers could penetrate the system and tamper with 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 (Intrusion detection) that identify and prevent unauthorized access via the Internet. In addition, many systems have a Tamper protection for base and sensorsIf, for example, burglars attempt to remove a sensor's batteries, an immediate notification usually appears in the alarm app. The same happens if a sensor's Wi-Fi connection is lost in any other way.

You might also be interested in:

The Chambers of Crafts in Germany - Chamber of Crafts and Trades of Saarland

Certified: family-friendly company

Mobility - Pkw

Alfa Romeo Classiche expands services at the factory museum

Operations management

Advertising with sustainability – but doing it right!

Non-personal or anonymized information remains protected by tax secrecy. Disclosure to third parties is only allowed if no identification is possible and both states confirm that no harm to tax administration will occur. With jammers, the systems cannot be paralyzed so easily: The alarm systems usually use several Communication channels such as Ethernet, WLAN, mobile communications or radio technology Jeweller. If individual channels are disrupted or fail completely, the alarm app usually displays a notification immediately. Some systems continue to function even during power outages: Integrated batteries can often bridge up to 24 hours.

Missing certifications


Unfortunately, the Comparability of WLAN alarm systems significantly more difficultbecause some manufacturers avoid expensive certification. Non-certified systems do not necessarily have to be worse be – tests from specialist magazines provide information here. Even without certification, Wi-Fi alarm systems can deter thieves, ensure the rapid arrival of the police and support the subsequent investigation with video or audio material. Certified security, however, is only provided by WLAN alarm systems that comply with at least the DIN EN 50131-1 Grade 2 or VDS Class A standards.. The installation and maintenance of these systems should always be carried out by a specialist company.

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 hazards exist (e.g. vandalism, unauthorized entry, theft of valuables, materials or tools)?

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

WiFi 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 required inside and outside (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 required?

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 built-in microphones for recording sound and speakers for alerting intruders?

Alarm functions: What alarms are required (e.g. indoor and outdoor sirens, push notifications via smartphone or email, connection to a professional security service)?

Fuse: 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 a power outage (e.g. via battery or solar panel)?

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

Service: Is it necessary to train employees on how to operate and maintain the systems? Do contact details for support and troubleshooting tips need to be provided?

Legal certainty: Are all requirements of the GDPR as well as those in the areas of occupational health and safety and neighbouring law met?

DHB now also digital!Simply click here and register for the digital German Crafts Journal (DHB)!