Over recent years, security systems have changed from simple control panels and locks into high-tech gadgets. But, today’s security systems aren’t just the result of the technological developments that have rocketed over the past few years. The foundations for effective security systems were actually created generations ago.

 When World War I came to an end in 1918, an increase in crime followed. As a result, the Americans became eager to find ways of protecting themselves and their property. In addition to this, many insurance companies began to offer premium discounts to alarm subscribers. These events in turn produced a consumer demand for alarm systems. A service called ‘door shakers’ then came into place, which consisted of a group of evening watchmen who would shake people’s doors every night to make sure they were locked.

 During this time, homeowners may have subscribed to a service called door shakers— a group of night watchmen who would shake subscribers’ doors each night to ensure they were locked. There was also an alternative alarm system that used electromagnetic contacts fastened to doors and windows, which were connected to a battery and bell. These systems were monitored by a central station that sent a guard to the property in question whenever an alarm was triggered.

 When George Orwell’s novel '1984' was published in 1989, the world was introduced to the concept of video surveillance. However, even though the technology was developed during the 1940s, it wasn’t until the 1970s that it was used in homes. An early model of an advanced video home security system consisted of a large camera that could view the exterior of the home through tiny holes mounted in the front door. The video camera would send grainy images of visitors to a television monitor that was also the control panel where the homeowner controlled the camera’s movements with a remote. The control panel (located in a separate room away from the camera) was equipped with security features (for example, an intercom and an alarm button).

 These days, surveillance cameras can be as small as one square inch. They are connected to the Internet and are equipped with powerful lenses that can capture and stream high definition video footage that can be viewed anywhere. In addition to this, homeowners can also program their security systems to send a live video clip of an area if they need to.

 The whole concept of security systems has developed considerably throughout the last century and the gadgets on the market these days are extremely reliable when it comes to offering security and protection.