What Is Self-Monitored Home Security?
Self-monitored home security means you are the one monitoring your alarm system – not a distant call center. In a self-monitored setup, the moment a door opens or an alarm triggers, instant alerts are sent directly to your smartphone via the Abode app. You’ll immediately know what’s happening at home and can take action yourself – whether that’s checking a live camera feed, triggering a siren, or calling the authorities if needed. This DIY approach eliminates monthly monitoring fees because no contract or third-party service is required for you to stay informed. Abode enables self-monitoring by providing a robust system of sensors, cameras, and an intuitive mobile app so you can reliably watch over your home 24/7 on your own terms. In short, self-monitoring puts you in charge of your security, giving you complete control and visibility at all times.
Abode vs. Traditional Alarm Companies – No Contracts, More Freedom
Traditional alarm companies often lock you into multi-year contracts and charge steep monthly fees for professional monitoring. Abode is different. With Abode’s contract-free DIY security system, you get the same peace of mind without the hassle or expense of a long-term contract. Here’s why Abode’s self-monitored solution stands out compared to old-school systems:
No Contracts or Hidden Fees: Abode never requires a long-term contract – you own your equipment and can self-monitor free. Traditional systems typically require 2-3 year agreements and penalties for canceling. Abode’s approach is truly no‑strings‑attached.
DIY Installation (No Appointments): Set up your Abode system yourself in minutes. There’s no need to schedule professional installers or pay installation fees. Plug in, sync via the app, and you’re protected. Traditional alarms often require costly professional installs and service calls.
App-Based Control vs. Call Centers: With Abode, your smartphone is your security hub. You receive alerts and check your system through an app instantly. Legacy systems rely on call center operators to notify you (which can introduce delays). Abode’s direct alerts are faster and put you in control of every situation.
Flexible Monitoring Options: Abode lets you self-monitor for $0 per month and optionally add professional monitoring only if and when you want it. Most traditional providers bundle in mandatory monitoring subscriptions. Abode’s flexibility means you choose when to upgrade – no pressure.
Smart Home Integration: Abode’s system doubles as a smart home hub, working with devices like lights, locks, and voice assistants out-of-the-box. Traditional alarms are often closed systems with limited smart home compatibility.
By choosing Abode’s self-monitored security, you’re getting modern, powerful home protection without the outdated restrictions of a traditional alarm company. It’s home security evolved – greater control, fewer obligations.
Real-Time Alerts & Mobile Control
Stay connected to your home with instant, real-time alerts on your phone. Abode’s app-based alarm system sends you a notification the moment any sensor is triggered – whether it’s a door opening, motion detected, or a smoke alarm sounding. You’ll know right away if something needs your attention. Through the free Abode mobile app (available for iOS and Android), you can arm or disarm your system remotely, check sensor status, and even receive email and text alerts in addition to push notifications. Mobile control means you’re never out of touch with your home’s security: lock doors, turn on lights, or sound the alarm all from your smartphone. Abode puts peace of mind at your fingertips, allowing you to monitor and manage your home security from anywhere, anytime.
Live Video Monitoring from Anywhere
See what’s happening at home in real time with live video monitoring. Abode offers a range of indoor and outdoor security cameras that integrate seamlessly with your self-monitored system. From the Abode app, you can view live HD video feeds of your home and property whenever you want. Hear a noise or get an alert? Just open the app to check your cameras instantly. You’ll be able to verify if it’s a false alarm or something that requires action. Abode cameras also support motion-activated recording and cloud storage options, so you can review recorded clips if needed (with an optional plan). With features like two-way audio, you can even speak through certain cameras to visitors or intruders. Live video gives you the extra insight to confidently self-monitor – you’re not just getting an alert, you’re able to see the situation in seconds and respond appropriately. It’s like having a set of eyes on your home at all times, right from your phone.
Smart Home Integration & Automation
Make your security system part of your smart home. Abode’s DIY security system is built to work seamlessly with smart devices and platforms you already use. It’s compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Z-Wave, and Zigbee, to name a few. This means you can arm your system with a voice command, have your smart lights turn on when an alarm is triggered, and connect dozens of third-party smart devices for a truly automated home. Using Abode’s intuitive CUE automation platform, you can set up custom rules and schedules – for example, have your thermostat adjust and doors lock automatically when you set Abode to “Away” mode. The system’s open integration approach makes it more than just an alarm; it’s a whole-home automation hub. All your smart gadgets – locks, lights, garage door openers, thermostats, and more – can work together with your security. The result is a smarter, safer home that reacts automatically to keep you secure, all without you having to lift a finger. With Abode, you get a security system that plays nicely with others, fitting right into your connected lifestyle.
Easy DIY Setup in Minutes
Setting up your Abode self-monitored security system is quick and simple – no professional installers needed. DIY installation is a core part of Abode’s design. Each system comes with step-by-step instructions in the Abode mobile app, so you can get your system up and running in under 30 minutes (most users are protected within 15 minutes of unboxing!). All sensors and devices come pre-paired to the hub; just place them where you want and follow the guided setup. There’s no drilling or complex wiring required – devices stick on or plug in easily. And if you do need a hand, Abode’s friendly support team is available 24/7 to walk you through it. Going DIY not only saves you installation fees, but it also means you can reconfigure or expand your system anytime on your own. Add a new door sensor or camera? It’s as easy as a few taps in the app to connect it. Abode’s DIY security system gives you the freedom to personalize your protection without any hassle.
Expandable System That Grows With You
Your security needs might change over time – and Abode is ready to adapt. The Abode system is modular and expandable, so you can start with a basic kit and easily build it out as needed. Begin with just the essentials (like a hub, a couple of door sensors, and a motion detector) and later add more sensors or cameras as your home or family grows. There’s a wide range of compatible add-ons: door/window sensors, motion detectors, glass break sensors, indoor/outdoor cameras, smoke alarm monitors, water leak sensors, keypads, smart locks, and more. All of these integrate smoothly into the same Abode app for unified control. Upgrading is simple – new devices can be paired in minutes without any technical expertise. Unlike some systems that are one-size-fits-all, Abode lets you customize your setup to fit your home’s layout and your security priorities. You’ll never outgrow the system – whether you move to a larger house or want to cover new areas, Abode’s DIY security is flexible enough to scale up at any time. Protect what matters most, on your terms, with a system that keeps up with your life.
Optional On-Demand Professional Monitoring
One of Abode’s greatest strengths is giving you choices. While self-monitoring is Abode’s hallmark (and completely free to use), there may be times you want an extra layer of security. That’s why Abode offers optional 24/7 professional monitoring that you can turn on whenever you need it. Going on vacation or won’t be able to respond to alerts for a while? You can upgrade to professional monitoring on-demand, whether for a few days or on a monthly plan – **with no contracts and no obligations to keep it. When professional monitoring is active, a US-based monitoring center will receive your alarms and can dispatch emergency responders if an alarm is confirmed, just like a traditional alarm company would. You can choose between Abode’s Standard Plan or Pro Plan at any time, enabling features like cellular backup, video cloud storage, and premium support in addition to professional response. The key difference is you’re never locked in – you can activate or cancel these services at will. Abode’s approach means you get the best of both worlds: self-monitor when you want control and savings, and instantly add professional help when you need extra peace of mind. It’s security on your terms, always.
