Home Security

76 topics across 7 chapters

Chapter 1

Risk Assessment & Security Planning

Threat Modeling

1 subtopics

Write your threat model (assets, likely threats, scenarios, priorities)

Home Security Audit

1 subtopics

Complete an entry-point + nighttime walk-through audit (notes + photos)

Upgrade Roadmap & Budget

1 subtopics

Build a prioritized roadmap (quick wins → long-term) with a realistic budget

Maintenance & Documentation

1 subtopics

Create a maintenance schedule (batteries/tests) and document device settings

Chapter 2

Physical Hardening (Perimeter & Structure)

Doors

1 subtopics

Reinforce doors (deadbolt, strike plate, hinges, frame/door condition)

Windows & Sliding Doors

1 subtopics

Secure windows/sliders (locks, anti-lift, and a film/bar plan where appropriate)

Exterior Lighting & Landscaping

1 subtopics

Plan exterior lighting and clear sight lines (remove hiding spots, avoid glare)

Garage & Outbuildings

1 subtopics

Secure garage/sheds (opener security, side doors, and tool control)

Valuables Storage

1 subtopics

Select and anchor a safe; reduce “easy-grab” valuables and conceal spare keys

Chapter 3

Access Control & Entry Management

Rekeying & Mechanical Locks

1 subtopics

Rekey/replace locks and establish key control rules (who has copies, when to rekey)

Smart Locks & Codes

1 subtopics

Configure codes/schedules and define backup access for lock/power/phone failures

Guest/Contractor Access

1 subtopics

Set a temporary access workflow (time-boxed codes/keys) and rotation/lost-key steps

Packages & Mail

1 subtopics

Create a package/mail plan (lockbox, delivery notes, holds, and pickup alternatives)

Chapter 4

Detection, Alarms & Surveillance

Alarm System Fundamentals

1 subtopics

Choose an alarm approach (DIY/pro; wired/wireless) and learn arming modes

Sensor Strategy (Contacts/Motion)

1 subtopics

Place sensors to cover likely entry paths while minimizing false alarms

Camera Strategy

2 subtopics

Select and place cameras for identification (angles, height, lighting, choke points)

Secure video/data storage (local vs cloud, encryption, retention, access control)

Monitoring & Response

1 subtopics

Choose monitoring (self/pro) and define response steps plus an emergency contact list

Resilience & Testing

1 subtopics

Add resilience (battery/UPS/cellular where relevant) and implement a test plan

Chapter 5

Smart Home & Network (Cyber) Security

Router/Wi‑Fi Hardening

1 subtopics

Lock down router/Wi‑Fi (admin creds, WPA settings, disable WPS) and segment IoT

IoT Device Management

1 subtopics

Implement a patch/update routine and disable risky features (e.g., UPnP) where possible

Accounts & Phone Security

1 subtopics

Enable MFA, use a household password manager, and apply phone lock/app-permission hygiene

Secure Remote Access

1 subtopics

Avoid port forwarding; use VPN/secure remote access and review household sharing permissions

Secure Video/Data Storage

2 subtopics

↗ Secure video/data storage (local vs cloud, encryption, retention, access control) (see Chapter 4)

Create backups of key configurations and a simple recovery plan

Chapter 6

Routines, Safety & Incident Response

Daily Habits

1 subtopics

Create a daily checklist (doors/windows/garage, lighting, visibility, habits)

Travel/Vacation Routines

1 subtopics

Create a vacation checklist (timers, mail hold, neighbor contact, delivery pauses)

Break-in Response Plan

1 subtopics

Define what to do during a suspected break-in (safe room/exit, 911, communication)

Fire/CO/Medical Readiness

1 subtopics

Install/test life-safety devices (smoke/CO detectors, extinguishers, first aid basics)

Evidence & Reporting

2 subtopics

Preserve evidence safely (save footage/logs; avoid confrontation; maintain chain of notes)

Create an incident report template (timeline, photos, items, people, actions taken)

Chapter 7

Legal, Privacy & Insurance

Recording Laws & Permits

1 subtopics

Verify local rules (video/audio consent, permits, false-alarm fees, signage requirements)

Privacy-First Camera Practices

1 subtopics

Set camera boundaries (neighbors/public) and decide guest notice/signage + retention habits

Insurance Readiness

2 subtopics

Review coverage/limits and build a claim-ready home inventory (photos/receipts/serials)

↗ Preserve evidence safely (save footage/logs; avoid confrontation; maintain chain of notes) (see Chapter 6)

Vendor/Monitoring Contracts

1 subtopics

Compare monitoring/vendor contracts (fees, cancellation, dispatch policy, data handling)

Renting/HOA Constraints

1 subtopics

Handle landlord/HOA approvals and choose renter-friendly options (non-invasive installs)