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Editor's Choice: This Comcast company's combo of equipment, automation, professional installation and monitoring is great. But there's still progress to be made.
Joshua Goldman Managing Editor / Advice
Managing Editor Josh Goldman is a laptop expert and has been writing about and reviewing them since built-in Wi-Fi was an optional feature. He also covers almost anything connected to a PC, including keyboards, mice, USB-C docks and PC gaming accessories. In addition, he writes about cameras, including action cams and drones. And while he doesn't consider himself a gamer, he spends entirely too much time playing them.
Expertise Laptops, desktops and computer and PC gaming accessories including keyboards, mice and controllers, cameras, action cameras and drones Credentials
- More than two decades experience writing about PCs and accessories, and 15 years writing about cameras of all kinds.
See full bio
7 min read
8.0
Xfinity Home
Like
- No contract required
- Good mix of Xfinity, third-party device support
- Flexible pricing for equipment, service
Don't like
- Push to bundle with internet, TV services
- No wireless camera option
- Automations are fairly limited
Product details
- Installation Professional installation
- Required No
- Assistant Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant
- Fees 24/7 professional monitoring fee
- Bundles Internet, phone, cable
I never remember to set my alarm system before leaving my house. OK, maybe once or twice, I remembered, but it wasn't without first telling my family to all get out of the house so I could close the front door, set the alarm, dash out the door and lock it, all while hoping that someone didn't leave a window open somewhere. Comcast's Xfinity Home put an end to all of that.
With Xfinity's mobile app, I can see if a window or door is open, a light is on or a motion sensor is actively triggered. I can adjust my thermostat and check my cameras. Get notifications if there's water in my basement. Quickly set up automation for all those devices (well, most of those devices) so that my lights turn on when I open the front door at night and the security system disarms before I walk down the stairs the next morning. And yes, I can use my phone to arm and disarm the system from my driveway, or anywhere else really.
TheDIY home security marketis loaded with options that can do similar things (and forsecurity cameras alone, there are way cheaper options). The perk of going with Xfinity Home is that it's all professionally installed and the individual pieces work well together. Bonus points: They can be controlled with a single app. If you're in the market for a home security system that isn't DIY, Comcast beats out all the competitors -- from ADT to Vivint.
Bring me the bundles
When I first reviewed Xfinity Home in 2017, I was already an Xfinity Internet and TV customer and used SimpliSafe for my home security. However, following my review, I liked the combination of security and smart home features so much that I signed up for Xfinity Home. I did drop its internet and TV services, though. According to a Comcast representative, I'm apparently in a very small group of Xfinity Home subscribers who don't bundle it with another of its services.
To give me the full Xfinity Home experience, the company temporarily installed in my home its latest X1 TV box and xFi gateway and xFi pods to create a whole-home mesh network. The installers also updated my touchscreen security panel -- the Xfinity Home Station -- to what customers would have in their homes today.
To reiterate, you do not need Xfinity TV or internet service to get Xfinity Home. However, because the xFi gateway and Home Station are designed to work together, there are benefits to bundling with Xfinity's internet service. For example, the gateway's security protection for your network extends to devices connected to it, including cameras. It also has the option to pause connections to devices on the network (I used this feature a bunch to limit screen time for my kids) that can be used to blackout your cameras should you want some privacy. Plus, if you change your Wi-Fi credentials, it will automatically update your Xfinity Home equipment as well.
I would argue that with any newer Wi-Fi router worth owning, you will get network security to protect your devices and the ability to block network access to specific devices. I certainly have those features on my personal router and have had no issues using it with Xfinity's security equipment. That said, those already with Xfinity Internet or considering getting it can expect a seamless experience with Xfinity Home based on my use of the two together.
Of course, the more you bundle, the better your overall package price. An unexpected twist is the cost has improved since I initially signed up for it.
The basic service with professional monitoring is $30 a month. Adding 24/7 camera recording with storage for seven days and up to six cameras brings your monthly bill to $40. Combined with the top-tier TV service and Gigabit internet service, my bill as a new customer total would be $205. However, this will vary depending on the tiers of services you choose and how many of them you're bundling together. The same goes for installation fees, which are $100 in my area if I install multiple Xfinity services or $60 just Home alone. You'll need tocheck your area to see what services are available.
More importantly, Comcast has done away with a service contract requirement for Xfinity Home. You will still need to buy the equipment you can either purchase outright or in 24 monthly payments (more on that below). A majority of customers opt for the payment plan option, an Xfinity spokeswoman said. If you buy your equipment, you can end service whenever you want.
Make wise device decisions
For new users, Xfinity offers three basic equipment packages to get you started. If you want extras of anything, you can tack them onto your bill. You can call Xfinity to discuss what you might need if you're unsure what you need for your home.
Base Home System: $360 or $15 per month for 24 months
- 1x touchscreen controller
- 3x door/window sensors
- 1x pet-friendly motion sensor
- Battery and cellular system backup
- Xfinity Home Security yard sign
Complete Home System: $480 or $20 per month for 24 months
- 1x touchscreen controller
- 5x door/window sensors
- 1x pet-friendly motion sensor
- 1x wireless keypad
- 1x HD indoor/outdoor Xfinity camera
- Battery and cellular system backup
- Xfinity Home Security yard sign
Ultimate Home System: $600 or $25 per month for 24 months
- 1x touchscreen controller
- 10x door/window sensors
- 1x pet-friendly motion sensor
- 1x wireless keypad
- 2x HD indoor/outdoor Xfinity cameras
- Battery and cellular system backup
- Xfinity Home Security yard sign
The prices for à la carte equipment are fairly reasonable, and Xfinity doesn't hide its pricing, as shown in the screenshot above. A window or door sensor will run you $20 from Xfinity, while a similar sensor from competitor Vivint costs $50. Xfinity's indoor/outdoor camera is $120, while Vivint's is $400 for outside and $200 for inside. A similar camera from ADT is $290.
Speaking of cameras, Xfinity has made it more affordable to add them to your system. There used to be a per-camera per-month charge. Now, it's just $120 each for the cameras, and if you want 24/7 recordings for up to seven days, it's just a flat $10 extra per month for up to six cameras. You can also skip the recordings and simply use the cameras to receive activity notifications.
If you're interested in nothing but cameras, Xfinity offers one more service option for xFi internet subscribers. The Xfinity Home Self Protection plan lets you add up to six cameras to your home (for $120 each) with 24/7 video recording for $10 a month.
Get smart(er)
Once you settle on the security equipment, you can build out your package with Xfinity's Zen thermostat and outlet controller that can turn lights or small appliances on and off. I really like the look of the Zen thermostat, it works well and it's easy to use. (Oddly, the only people I've had in my house who haven't been able to use it are HVAC repairmen.) The outlet controllers are nothing special but are a nice addition if you want to, say, trigger a lamp to turn on when a door opens.
You can also integratea large and growing list of third-party devices into your Xfinity Home system. The list includes smart light bulbs from Lifx, Philips and Sengled, Chamberlain MyQ garage openers, August, Yale and Kwikset locks and even Tile trackers. Product support does change, however, so you may want to check the list before you set up an install.
Put it all together
At the heart of the system at home is the Xfinity Home Station. Designed by Comcast, it has a better display and processing power than its predecessor for smoother, more responsive performance. As I popped through menus and settings, I noticed considerably less lag than the one I had used. Picture quality from the cameras is also improved, making it easier to keep an eye on things without looking at my phone. The Home Station has a 4G cellular radio and a backup battery, just in case my power and internet go down. It also acts as a Zigbee repeater to help keep smart home devices connected in larger homes.
One of the benefits of bundling with TV or internet is that you can use the voice remote for its X1 box or Flex streaming boxwith Xfinity Home. There's a whole list of voice commands to control your smart home, view your camera feeds and find your keys or other stuff if you have a Tile tracker. It is particularly handy for turning off lights or adjusting your room temperature without getting off the couch or opening the app. Like the xFi integration, it's nice if you have Xfinity TV or are considering it along with Xfinity Home, but not a necessity.
Honestly, you'll probably spend most of your time controlling your system with the mobile app. As I said at the top, you can do everything from arming your alarm to checking your cameras and recordings to setting up automations. The app is a breeze to use. Want a lamp to turn on when your motion sensor is tripped and then turn itself off five minutes later? How about getting a push notification when a door or window opens? You can set up each of those in under a minute with a few taps.
That's not to say things couldn't be better. While it's easy to set up new rules, there aren't a lot of recipes to choose from. For instance, the only thermostat-related one is for getting a notification if it gets too hot or cold in your home. It can't, for example, adjust temperatures based on motion detection. There are no camera recipes, so you can't do something like have lights come on if your front porch camera picks up activity.
The dearth of recipes is a shortcoming but hardly a deal breaker. Cost is likely going to be the biggest deterrent for most people. Doing away with contracts helps and so does the flexibility to pay for the equipment upfront or in installments. Plus, $60 for the professional installation is money well spent considering all that. If you're looking to outfit an apartment or townhouse and aren't planning to bundle Home with other Xfinity services, you might be better off with a DIY kit. Otherwise, Xfinity Home is a simple way to combine smart home tech and security.
FAQs
Xfinity Home Security Review: The Best Professionally Installed Home Security System? ›
Yes, Xfinity Home is a good home security system based on great customer reviews and home protection services. They currently seem to lack equipment options and customizations but cover basic home security needs (monitoring your home). They excel in their ability to integrate and automate with smart home devices.
What is the #1 rated home security? ›| Brand | Best for | Smart home compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| Vivint | Best overall | Amazon, Google, Z-Wave |
| SimpliSafe | Budget pick | Amazon, Google |
| ADT | Most experienced | Amazon, Google, Z-Wave |
| Cove | Best customer experience | Amazon, Google |
Yes, Xfinity Home is a good home security system based on great customer reviews and home protection services. They currently seem to lack equipment options and customizations but cover basic home security needs (monitoring your home). They excel in their ability to integrate and automate with smart home devices.
Does Xfinity install home security? ›Does Xfinity install security cameras? Yes, Xfinity installs security cameras like their indoor/ outdoor camera. However, you can also install it yourself if you don't want to pay for professional installation.
How much does Xfinity charge to install cameras? ›Get a camera for a one-time charge of $120, plus 24/7 Video Recording for $10/mo. Keep tabs on what's happening in and outside your home at all times, with live video you can view from anywhere. Plus, see what you missed and find activity with people, vehicles, and pets in seconds.
How much should I spend on home security? ›The home security system monthly cost typically ranges from about $10 to $50, with prices varying depending on the amount of equipment being monitored, and how advanced the services are.
Does ring call the police? ›When you trigger SOS in the Ring app, we send a signal to request police, fire, or medical response to your verified address on the account. If you requested fire or medical dispatch, our monitoring center will call every emergency contact; if nobody answers the call, we will request dispatch.
Does Xfinity home security call the police? ›Do Xfinity and ADT call the police in case of emergencies? Xfinity and ADT call the police in case of emergencies, also known as professional monitoring. Xfinity and ADT systems are linked to their respective monitoring centers, and when there's an alarm, the system will call the monitoring center.
Does Xfinity Advanced security cost more? ›From computers and mobile phones to home security cameras and smart thermostats, Advanced Security protects all of your connected devices for added peace of mind. Advanced Security is available at no cost to Xfinity Internet subscribers who rent a compatible xFi Gateway.
What security method does Xfinity use? ›On the open SSID, Xfinity WiFi supports 128-bit encryption at sign-in, similar to the encryption used by financial services apps and websites. Users of open hotspots should always be mindful of what private information and data they expose while connected.
How long does it take to install Xfinity security system? ›
Installation generally takes between two to four hours. Need to reschedule your appointment? Sign in to My Account.
Do I have to return Xfinity home security equipment? ›Please note, you'll need to return your Xfinity Camera or Video Doorbell within 30 days of the purchase date (if purchased at a retail store) or within 30 days of the shipment date to receive a full refund.
Can I cancel Xfinity home security? ›Visit your local Xfinity Retail Store. Complete a simple online cancellation form. We'll call you within two business days of receipt to confirm your request.
How long is Xfinity home security contract? ›Choose Xfinity as your home security provider if you want…
Financing options: If you're okay with signing a two-year contract, you can take advantage of Xfinity's financing option and pay only $30 or $40 a month for your equipment.
A power outage will interrupt communication to and from non-voice communications equipment, including but not limited to, alarm and security systems or devices, medical monitoring devices, personal emergency alert devices, home detection devices and fax machines connected to Xfinity Voice.
What happens when Xfinity alarm goes off? ›During an alarm, you'll receive an Alarm in Progress! email or text message on your mobile device. If you're away from home and don't have the Xfinity Home app, you can cancel the alarm in the Subscriber Portal.
What you should know before buying a home security system? ›What to Look for When Buying a Home Security System. Key features to consider when purchasing a home security system include wireless vs. wired home security monitoring, the security of the system itself (whether it's vulnerable to hackers), and the cost.
Is security system tax deductible? ›A home security system can be considered a business expense if you use it in a part of your home that is primarily and exclusively for business. What can you deduct from your income taxes as a homeowner? As a homeowner, you can deduct the following, according to the IRS: State and local real estate taxes.
Should I pay for home security? ›Security systems and monitoring discourage break-ins: 60% of convicted burglars say they will target another home if they discover a security system in the one they are trying to rob. If your goal is reducing loss from burglary, it's easy to see that security systems make a difference.
Can someone disable my Ring camera? ›Only the owner of a Ring device can deactivate it. You won't be able to control or change any of the device settings after your device is deactivated. Your videos are stored in the cloud only with a Ring Protect Plan, and the storage time may vary based on your Video Storage Time settings.
Is there a monthly fee with Ring? ›
Ring Protect Basic costs $3.99/month or $39.99/year. Ring Protect Plus includes video recording for all doorbells and security cameras in your home. You also get an extended warranty plus 10% off select Ring products on Ring.com and Amazon.com.
Can police tap in on Ring camera? ›The takeaway. Google, Ring and other companies that process user video footage have a legal basis for warrantless disclosure without consent during emergency situations, and it's up to them to decide whether or not to do so when the police come calling.
Is Xfinity Home professionally monitored? ›Xfinity Home is a total home security solution that includes professional monitoring and advanced technology, all installed by experts and powered by WiFi from Xfinity. Named the Best Professionally Installed Pro Protection System by CNET.
Does Xfinity Cameras have night vision? ›Camera Features
Get a clear view of your home with HD live video and night vision. With Xfinity X1, you can access your Xfinity cameras and video doorbells to view live video right from the comfort of your couch. Monitor your home, and so much more, with your Xfinity Voice Remote.
With a professional security camera installation from Xfinity, you can rest assured that your equipment is set up correctly. Professional installation also means you'll learn the ins and outs of your system and how best to use it.
Should I enable Xfinity Advanced security? ›We do not recommend that you turn off Advanced Security, as this removes Advanced Security's protections from all of your devices. If you need access to a specific device, we recommend you keep Advanced Security turned on and follow the steps above to Allow Access on a device-by-device basis.
Does Xfinity still offer free Norton Security? ›Norton Mobile Security is part of Norton Security Online, included at no additional charge with Xfinity Internet. Help keep your Android, iPhone and iPad safe with powerful mobile protection from Norton.
What is maximum security high Xfinity? ›Maximum Security (High), which will block most applications except web browsing, email, iTunes and VPN. Typical Security (Medium), which allows access to most sites and services, but blocks all peer-to-peer applications. Minimum Security (Low), which enables all secure apps.
Does Xfinity protect from hackers? ›The $5.99 monthly xFi Advanced Security service 'automatically protects' any device connected to your home internet via the Xfinity Advanced Gateway, Comcast said.
How to bypass Xfinity home security? ›- Tap the Sensor Open message.
- Tap the open sensor.
- Uncheck the Sensor is on box. Warning: The alarm will not sound if this sensor is triggered.
- Return to the Overview screen. The system is ready to arm. Remember - the sensor will stay bypassed until you turn it back on.
What is included in Xfinity Professional installation? ›
With professional installation, an Xfinity technician comes to your home, connects your residence to the network, and sets up your new service. A professional install requires scheduling an appointment time, and the install fee can be up to $89.99.
Why does Xfinity say weak security? ›This message is notifying you that your Wi-Fi encryption security is weaker than desirable. iOS is most likely sending you this message as your network security settings are not set to WPA2 (AES) or WPA3. Continue reading below and we will walk you through how to resolve this error message.
What is the difference between stay and night on Xfinity security? ›Night: Same as stay, but can't enter the entry door. Night is the trickiest mode of all because it can function in different ways depending on how the installer set it. But, usually, the 30-second entry delay with entrance through door though is removed and opening a door will instantly trip the alarm.
How to bypass Xfinity Advanced security? ›Can I turn off Advanced Security? Yes. To turn off the Advanced Security feature in xFi, select the Account icon from the top-left corner of the Overview tab on the Xfinity app and then select xFi Advanced Security. From here, select Turn Off under xFi Advanced Security and follow the on-screen prompts.
How long does Xfinity cameras keep footage? ›Store up to seven days of video history from up to six Xfinity Cameras in our cloud. Recordings are stored for seven days to review, rewind, download, and share moments that matter most.
Do Xfinity cameras record sound? ›Learn how to turn on your Xfinity Camera or Video Doorbell microphone, so you can have sound for live video and 24/7 Video Recording.
What happens to security system if Wi-Fi goes out? ›Like a cellular phone, these types of home security systems use specific radio frequencies to maintain communication with cellular transmitters in outage situations. Cellular connections are unaffected by internet outages. A system with cellular backup keeps all of your alarms up and running if the internet goes out.
What happens to a home security system when the power goes out? ›Most home security systems switch to backup battery power during a power outage. If the system usually relies on Wi-Fi, it may also switch to cellular backup during an outage. Some brands only offer cellular backup in their premium plans, so be sure to double-check a system's capabilities before you buy.
Will house alarm go off if battery dies? ›Bottom Line. Yes, house alarm systems work when there is no electricity as long as there is a backup power source. But you should keep in mind that even with a backup, there is still the potential for the power source to go out, and the house alarm will go off if the battery dies.
What to do if house alarm goes off at night? ›The best plan is to go to a room that you have designated as a “safe place.” This is a room that is as far away as possible from where a burglar could enter. It is a plus if you can lock the door, but if not, at least make it a room that you can easily and safely stand watch.
Can I use my own cameras with Xfinity home? ›
Most Xfinity Home devices require a professional installation; however, you can purchase additional equipment and install it yourself: Cameras.
What to do if neighbors alarm goes off? ›- Observe. The first step to take when you hear a neighbour's alarm is to observe the situation. ...
- Notify. Contact your neighbour via call or text if you have their contact details. ...
- Stay safe. ...
- Contact the authorities.
Our Conclusion. The This Old House Reviews Team rated ADT Home Security a 9.1 out of 10. ADT is a great option for homeowners looking for a professionally installed and monitored home security system. It's also a great option if you want to use an Amazon Alexa to arm or disarm your security system.
What is grade 1 vs grade 2 security? ›Grade 1 not only meets commercial building requirements, it also provides the best security available against vandalism and heavy usage. Grade 2 meets light commercial requirements and exceeds residential building requirements. These locks are adequate for lighter duty doors where security is less of an issue.
Is ADT and Protection 1 the same company? ›ADT and Protection 1 are operating under common ownership, led by the Protection 1 Leadership Team.
Which sensor is best for motion detection? ›The best motion sensor is passive infrared (PIR). At least, it's by far the most widely used and most affordable form of motion sensing. There are concerns about the impact microwaves have on humans, while sound waves will be unpleasant for young children and pets. Active sensors are more expensive technologies.
Can burglars disable ADT? ›If you have your security system monitored through a home phone line, a burglar can easily disable your alarm communication.
Who is the best ADT competitor? ›Final Thoughts on ADT Alternatives
SimpliSafe will keep you free from a lengthy contract, Vivint offers full mobile monitoring capabilities, and Frontpoint offers a range of worthy add-ons. When it comes time to shop, know that the options are out there and choose a home security system that's right for you.
The total cost for the ADT Secure Home Package starts at:
$599 to $899 upfront + $45.99/month; or. $55.97 to $60.97/month.
PSIRA grades security guards from A – E with grade E the entry-level grading for beginner security guards and grade A the highest grading for supervisory guards.
What is Grade 5 security? ›
GRADE 5 – Extra High Security. GRADE 4 – High Security. GRADE 3 – Medium / High Security. GRADE 2 – Standard Security. GRADE 1 – Low Security.
Which lock is most secure? ›Deadbolt. This lock type is considered to be the most secure one. These locks are sturdy and really hard to break. They can be single-cylinder or double-cylinder.
Is there a lawsuit against ADT? ›The lawsuit says ADT is responsible for seven causes of action, including negligence; intrusion upon seclusion; negligent hiring, supervision and retention; intentional infliction of emotional distress; and privacy monitoring.
Do people still use ADT? ›Thanks to its extensive network of monitoring centers and its history of over 150 years in the industry, customers continue to trust ADT for their home security needs. Forbes Advisor named ADT the Best Pro Monitoring security company on our Best home security companies list.
What company took over ADT? ›In January 2018, the company IPOed on the New York Stock Exchange under ticker symbol "ADT". As of the end of 2022, Apollo still retains a majority share in ADT.
Which security camera has the longest motion detection range? ›- Best long range security camera wireless – Arlo Pro 5S 2K Spotlight.
- Best solar powered long range wireless security camera – Eufycam 3.
- Best long range night vision security camera wired – Lorex 4K Ultra HD Smart Deterrence IP Camera with Smart Motion Detection Plus.
- Corner Spaces. Put a motion sensor in the corner of each room, aimed toward the doorway. ...
- Near Valuables. Place motion sensors directly at your most valuable items. ...
- Outside Patios. ...
- Second Floor Bedrooms. ...
- Basements. ...
- Ceilings. ...
- Within Decorations.
Do Motion Cameras Record all the Time? Most motion cameras will only record when they detect motion, but there are some that will record continuously. Be sure to check the recording settings before purchasing a motion camera to be sure that it will work the way you want it to.