For small business owners seeking to install security systems, they can either do it on their own or through the help of professional installers. Knowing the differences between the two approaches is key to a successful implementation.
For small business owners seeking to install security systems, they can either do it on their own or through the help of professional installers. Knowing the differences between the two approaches is key to a successful implementation. For this article, we asked security players, including several systems integrators and consultants, to explain the key differences between the two.
When running a small shop or business, security matters. There are two types of security systems for small business owners to choose from. They can select off-the-shelf, do-it-yourself (DIY) solutions that are widely available in the market. For those that attach a greater importance to security, they can choose commercial-grade security systems that are typically installed by systems integrators. Some of the differences between the two approaches are summarized as follows.
Installation and setup
DIY security systems are typically made up of Wi-Fi cameras and basic storage and are meant for easy installation by the user. Professional installations are more complex and take more factors into consideration.
“DIY solutions are suitable for basic, plug-and-play setups; professional installation is essential for mid-to-large-scale projects. Professionals bring a deeper technical understanding of the product ecosystem, allowing them to navigate complex integration challenges and avoid common pitfalls – such as poor sensor placement or network vulnerabilities – that a layperson might overlook,” said Daniel Lim, Director of Prowler International.
It should be noted that professional installations usually require initial audits of the site to make sure the objectives are clearly defined.
“Professional installations typically include a review of objectives to achieve more effective security. For example, it determines whether the user wants to identify people or just record them without identification. A site survey is provided to select the best cameras and ensure their locations are correct. The professional survey ensures that the field of view, lighting, and areas covered meet the customer’s objectives,” said Bob Mesnik, President of Kintronics.
“DIY systems are designed for convenience and quick deployment. Professional systems begin with a risk assessment. Camera placement, sensor coverage, entry points, lighting, and lines of sight are evaluated to identify vulnerabilities. The goal is not just to install devices – it’s to design a layered security posture,” said Luke Bencie, MD, and Scarlett-Rose Austin, Junior Research Associate, at Security Management International.
Features and customization
Consumer-grade systems have less-advanced features, capabilities, and functions, while professional systems provide a much higher level of capability and flexibility.
“DIY is often a ‘walled garden’ with rigid, pre-defined features and limited third-party compatibility. Professional systems offer a unified architecture, allowing us to tailor the logic – such as linking video analytics to access control events – to create a bespoke ecosystem that scales as the business grows,” said Michael J. Cruz, Senior Security Consultant at COSECURE.
Reliability and maintenance
DIY solutions usually require the user to do the upgrades, replacements and troubleshooting. Professional systems, built for longevity, typically include ongoing maintenance and system updates. “DIY systems rely heavily on Wi-Fi and power stability. Professional systems often include hardwired components, cellular backup, and battery redundancy. In terms of maintenance, DIY owners manage updates, batteries, and storage. Professional providers offer system health monitoring and service support,” Bencie and Austin said.
Accountability
Finally, a key difference lies in accountability – who is responsible when something goes wrong or when the system fails to work.
“DIY gives you equipment and an app. You become the designer, installer, and support desk, and you only find out what you missed when something fails. Professional installation delivers a validated system: proper coverage, reliable infrastructure, documented configuration, and clear responsibility. It also addresses licensing, permitting, and code requirements – in many jurisdictions, intrusion, fire, and monitored alarm systems require a licensed professional and permitted work,” said David Morris, SVP of Operations at Interface Systems.
Which option makes more sense?
Given the differences between DIY and professional installation, small business owners can decide which method makes more sense to them.
“If video surveillance is not critical, where only one or two cameras and basic video recording are needed … or small businesses that don’t expect to expand, they may opt for the consumer-type system because of the lower cost,” Mesnik said.
“For a small retail footprint – typically under 8 cameras – a DIY system can be a cost-effective solution, especially if the layout is straightforward and the security requirements are basic. However, as complexity increases, a system integrator (SI) becomes vital,” Lim said. “Beyond the hardware, an SI ensures data integrity and storage redundancy, which are mission-critical for business liability.”
We’ll explore this topic more in upcoming articles.
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