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Best business security systems in 2025


As a business owner, you want to protect your assets, employees, and data. But choosing the right security system is no easy task. Together with the Cybernews research team, I have investigated and reviewed various security solutions to find the best security systems in 2025.

In this guide, I’ll review the top business security systems available today and highlight their features, cost, ease of use, and more. I will also explain what I believe an effective business security system should do and provide tips on choosing a solution that fits your business needs.

Top 5 business security systems – shortlist

What features to look for in a business security system?

Here are the key features that you should pay close attention to when looking for a business security system:

Video surveillance

HD (high-definition) cameras with night vision are crucial for monitoring your business day and night. Look for systems with remote access via mobile apps to allow you to watch live footage from anywhere. For example, Vivint offers 4K video quality along with local and cloud storage options.

Access control systems

Access control is important for regulating who can enter specific areas of your business premises. Ideally, businesses should use keycard systems, biometric scanners, or PIN codes to restrict unauthorized individuals from certain areas. ADT offers scalable systems that include access control.

Alarm systems

While they’re often underrated, motion sensors, door and window alarms, and glass-break detectors are an essential part of a quality alarm system. Sensors alert you in real-time if unusual activity is detected. SimpliSafe offers reliable, DIY-friendly (do-it-yourself) alarm systems that you can customize to your business needs.

Cloud storage

Another overlooked key feature is cloud-based storage for critical video footage. This allows for secure, off-site saving of surveillance data, so even if your hardware is compromised, you can access your footage. Vivint offers advanced storage solutions, with both local and cloud options available.

Remote monitoring & control

Monitoring your security system via smartphone or computer is key for businesses. Remote smart home automation systems, like Vivint, give business owners complete control over their security systems.

The best business security systems – our detailed list

Here is our detailed list that analyzes five excellent business security systems. I have included essential key features, an in-depth dive into each product, and introduced the brands behind these systems:

1. Vivint – best high-tech security for small and large businesses

vivint banner 2
Type of monitoring:Professional
Installation options:Professional
Equipment options:Cameras, motion detectors, smart locks, sensors, Smart Deter
Starting price & monthly fees:$599 equipment package, $54/month monitoring
Smart home compatibility:Alexa, Google Home, Z-Wave, Nest

Vivint is a premium security company founded in 1999. The company focuses on innovation and automation features in its systems. Its business security solutions are scalable for small and medium-sized businesses, offering cutting-edge, 24/7 protection for inventory, data, and employees.

Equipment: Vivint offers 4K resolution cameras, smart locks, and a Smart Deter system, which can automatically deter suspicious activity with lights, sounds, and camera notifications. This is a good security system for businesses seeking AI-driven protection.

Monitoring: Vivint offers 24/7 monitoring with immediate police, fire, or medical response. The Vivint Smart Hub enables real-time monitoring, alarm control, and video surveillance via the app. Its AI integration also helps reduce false alarms.

Cost: Vivint charges around $600 to $1,000 for equipment and $54/month for monitoring. While it’s more pricey than competitors, I think Vivint’s professionalism and smart features make it worthwhile.

User experience: Users appreciate Vivint's premium approach and Smart Deter technology. However, some users dislike its often long-term contracts (over 42 months) and higher costs.

2. Abode – best flexible, DIY smart security system for businesses

abode banner 2
Type of monitoring:Professional and self-monitoring
Installation options:DIY or professional
Equipment options:Cameras, entry sensors, motion detectors, keypads, smart locks
Starting price & monthly fees:$160 for equipment, $22/month monitoring
Smart home compatibility:Alexa, Google Home, Z-Wave, Apple HomeKit

Launched in 2014, Abode specializes in affordable and flexible DIY security systems. It is ideal for small businesses or home-office setups. Its key strength is smart home automation with CUE.

Equipment: Abode offers various hubs, entry sensors, motion detectors, and an Iota system with a built-in HD camera and motion sensor. Its CUE automation platform creates rules for lights, locks, and sensors based on time or motion.

Monitoring: Abode’s 24/7 monitoring includes emergency response services for break-ins, fire, or medical emergencies, plus cellular backup. There's also a no-fee self-monitoring option.

Cost: Abode’s equipment costs $160 and can go up to $330 while monitoring costs $22. We recommend Abode’s Iota All-in-One Security Kit, which has all the key components.

User experience: Users like Abode’s customizability, smart integrations, and kits. However, some dislike the setup experience and limited starter kits.

3. SimpliSafe – best affordable security for small businesses

simplisafe banner 2
Type of monitoring:Professional and self-monitoring
Installation options:DIY or optional professional installation
Equipment options:Cameras, motion detectors, entry sensors, smart locks, panic buttons
Starting price & monthly fees:$250 equipment package, $10/month monitoring
Smart home compatibility:Alexa, Google Home

SimpliSafe is a DIY home security company that has existed since 2006. The company claims to have pioneered affordable DIY security systems and has helped nearly 100,000 businesses save on security costs. I think it is ideal for smaller businesses on a budget.

Equipment: SimpliSafe offers various devices, including HD security cameras, advanced motion and glass break sensors, entry sensors, and panic buttons. SimpliSafe's business packages cover entrances and high-traffic areas.

Monitoring: SimpliSafe offers 24/7 monitoring, with the higher-tier plans offering Fast Protect (video verification) for police dispatch. No-fee self-monitoring is also available.

Cost: SimpliSafe’s monitoring fees range from $10/month (self-monitoring) to $25/month. Its equipment costs range from $140 to $730, less than competitors like ADT.

User experience: Users praise SimpliSafe's simplicity, intuitive app controls, and value for money. However, some dislike the limited smart home integrations.

4. Xfinity – easily integrated security system for businesses

xfinity banner 2
Type of monitoring:Professional and self-monitoring
Installation options:Professional only
Equipment options:Cameras, motion detectors, door/window sensors, touch screen panel
Starting price & monthly fees:$360 equipment package, $40/month monitoring
Smart home compatibility:Philips Hue, Ecobee, August, Google Nest

Launched in 2011, Xfinity Home is part of the Comcast family. It offers security, automation, and easy integration with other services. This security system is best suited for small businesses.

Equipment: Xfinity offers HD cameras, entry sensors, and touchscreen panels. It integrates seamlessly with third-party services such as Philips Hue, Google Nest, and August Smart Locks.

Monitoring: Xfinity offers 24/7 professional monitoring with video and smart detection features. The higher tier plan adds video recording and AI motion detection.

Cost: Xfinity’s equipment starts at $360 and goes up to $480. Professional monitoring ranges from $40 to $50/month. We recommend that business owners build their own system consisting of indoor and outdoor cameras and sensors.

User experience: Users of Xfinity services praise its automation for home devices like lights and locks. However, some dislike the extra cost of professional installation and the high monthly fees.

5. ADT – Over 150 years of security

adt banner 2
Type of monitoring:Professional
Installation options:Professional only
Equipment options:Professional only
Starting price & monthly fees:$370 equipment package, $50/month monitoring
Smart home compatibility:Alexa, Google Home, Z-Wave, Samsung SmartThings

ADT has existed for 150+ years. The company says it can help fight cyber attacks, which accounts for trillions of dollars in losses globally.

Equipment: ADT offers door/window sensors, on-site DVRs, and other business-focused equipment. It allows business owners to integrate access control, fire safety systems, and perimeter protection into their security system.

Monitoring: ADT has 12 nationwide centers offering 24/7 professional monitoring and coordination with local law enforcement. The company says its SMART Monitoring includes video verification, which reduces false alarms. Unlike other DIY systems, ADT does not offer self-monitoring.

Cost: ADT's equipment costs range from $370 to over $1,000, with monthly monitoring fees starting from $60/month. ADT is more expensive than DIY systems like SimpliSafe.

User experience: Looking at user reviews, people find ADT's app and equipment easy to use. However, some dislike the professional installation requirement.

Business Security Systems compared

Together with the Cybernews team, I compared multiple business security systems, considering a wide range of factors, including monitoring options, pricing, ease of installation, and more. I also rated the products. The table below shows our five best security systems side-by-side:


Cybernews ratingMonitoringSmart home integrationSmart home integrationEquipment price rangeEase of installation
Vivint
4.8
ProfessionalAmazon Alexa, Google AssistantAlexa, Google Home, Z-Wave, Nest$599 to $1,000+Difficult (professional only)
Abode
4.6
Professional and self-monitoringAmazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, ZigBee, Z-WaveAlexa, Google Home, Z-Wave, Apple HomeKit$160 to $330Moderate
SimpliSafe
4.5
Professional and self-monitoringAmazon Alexa, Google Assistant, August Smart LocksAlexa, Google Home $250 to $730Easy
Xfinity
4.5
Professional and self-monitoringAugust smart locks, LIFX lighting, Cor thermostats, and morePhilips Hue, Ecobee, August, Google Nest$360 up to $480Difficult (professional only)
ADT
4.3
ProfessionalAmazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Z-Wave, ZigbeeAlexa, Google Home, Z-Wave, Samsung SmartThings$370 to $1000+Difficult (professional only)

What are effective business security systems?

An effective business security system must protect commercial properties by integrating multiple layers of defense while offering a realistic price and solid customer support.

Such systems often include security cameras to monitor surroundings, access control to limit entry, and alarms to detect intrusions. Most of our top picks offer professional monitoring services for rapid response.

An effective business security system prevents crime and protects employees and business assets.

Some studies show that businesses with visible security systems are far less likely to be targeted for theft or vandalism. For instance, a 2009 study by Rutgers University found that security systems decrease criminal activity. In addition, a 2013 study by the University of North Carolina found that most burglars check for the presence of a security system.

These security systems also help to improve employee morale and peace of mind for the owners and shareholders.

What are the different types of business security systems?

There are various types of business security systems to suit the specific needs of small and large businesses. For example, smaller businesses might only require simple wireless setups, but larger ones may require several cameras, sensors, and different access requirements.

Whether you run a small retail shop or a large warehouse, optimizing your security system is key to protecting your business. Here are a few types of business security systems:

Traditional wired systems

Traditional wired systems use hardwired connections between sensors, control panels, and monitoring centers. They are reliable but may be difficult and costly to install.

Wireless security systems

Wireless systems use Wi-Fi or cellular networks and offer practicality and easy installation. They are ideal for small- to medium-sized businesses that need rapid deployment.

Hybrid systems

Hybrid systems combine elements of wired and wireless security systems. They offer flexibility and are scalable for growing businesses.

IP camera systems

IP camera systems use internet-connected cameras to provide high-quality video and allow remote monitoring through apps. This is ideal for real-time surveillance.

Monitored vs. unmonitored systems

Monitored systems offer professional oversight, while unmonitored systems rely on self-monitoring. The latter offers lower costs but requires more involvement from the business owner.

How do I choose the best business security system for my business?

The security solutions you choose should fully fit your business size, industry, and location.

For a small business in a high-traffic area, I recommend prioritizing surveillance cameras and access control systems to monitor customer flow and reduce theft.

On the other hand, if you run a large business, like a warehouse or industrial facility, I highly recommend including alarm monitoring and environmental sensors to protect highly valuable inventory.

You must also consider scalability. We recommend choosing a future-proof solution that accommodates extra equipment down the line. In this case, wireless and hybrid systems are better than traditional wired setups.

Also, for future-proofing, choose a system with AI capabilities. For instance, AI-based analytics for behavior detection is key. Look for cloud-based storage options that will streamline your business operations.

In conclusion, pick a trusted brand name (one of our top picks) with scalability and technology integration features for your business security needs.

What is professional monitoring?

Professional monitoring is a business security service where a third-party company oversees your business's security system 24/7 (day and night). Many of our top picks offer this.

If an alarm is triggered (intrusion, fire, or another emergency), trained agents would respond quickly by contacting you and dispatching emergency responders if needed.

Professional monitoring is excellent because you get an immediate response during emergencies and, with that, added peace of mind. However, this service comes at an additional cost (as opposed to self-monitoring) and can even lead to fines if emergency services are dispatched unnecessarily.

Our methodology

The Cybernews research team and I carefully reviewed each business security system based on strict criteria.

First, we assessed the total cost of a security system, including upfront equipment costs and monthly monitoring fees. I selected systems that offer transparent and flexible pricing.

Installation was also important for us. I chose systems that provide intuitive steps, with a preference for DIY-friendly systems that give users an alternative to the often costly professional installation fees.

Next, we examined features and chose systems with mobile app controls, smart home capability (like integration with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant), and extra perks like customizable alerts and notifications.

Systems with innovative features like video analytics or AI features scored well.

Finally, I assessed monitoring options and distinguished between self-monitoring and professional monitoring capabilities. I picked systems that offer 24/7 professional monitoring since you can never have too much security.


Other security systems you might be interested in:


A final word on business security systems

A top business security system — like a home security system — should balance surveillance, access control, and monitoring to meet the specific needs of your business. Add scalability and future-proofing to the mix, and you have one perfect business security system.

Based on our research, investing in a system that meets current and future requirements can significantly reduce theft, vandalism, and other risks while providing practicality and a smooth user experience.

Vivint is our top business security system because it has a long history in the security business and ticks all our boxes. However, I highly recommend any of our top three business security systems.

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