February 2025 Security Guides: Smart Doorbells, Alarms, Cameras and Pet‑Friendly Tips
We rolled out a bunch of fresh posts in February, all aimed at helping you keep your home safe without turning it into a tech maze. From Ring doorbell hacks to how many cameras you really need, each article gives clear steps you can try today. Grab a coffee, skim the highlights, and pick the tweaks that fit your lifestyle.
Smart Doorbells & Video Systems Made Simple
Ring doorbells are everywhere, but a thief can still try to mute or disable them. Our "Can Thieves Really Disable Ring Doorbells?" post shows the most common tricks burglars use and three quick fixes – keep your Wi‑Fi strong, enable two‑factor authentication, and hide the battery pack for extra protection. If you’re setting up a new video doorbell, check out "Wiring Essentials for the Best Video Doorbells". It breaks down wired versus battery‑run models, tells you which voltage to expect, and lists the tools you’ll need so you don’t end up calling an electrician for a simple job.
Got a Ring that won’t chime inside? We covered the top reasons – from muted alerts in the app to a weak signal – and walked you through resetting the device and checking your router settings. The guide also points out how to test the doorbell’s speaker with a phone call, so you know it’s working before the next visitor shows up.
Alarms, Cameras and Pet‑Friendly Security
If you’re weighing ADT plans, our "How Much is the Monthly Bill for ADT?" article breaks down the typical price ranges, what features drive the cost, and how to negotiate a lower rate. Knowing whether you need a basic motion sensor or a full‑home monitoring package can save you a good chunk of cash.
Wireless CCTV power options are another hot topic. We compared wired electricity, solar panels, rechargeable batteries and Power over Ethernet (PoE). The key takeaway: solar units work best in sunny spots, while PoE gives you steady power without needing separate outlets. Pick the option that matches your home’s layout and your budget.
Pet owners often worry alarms will set off false alerts. Our "Pet‑Friendly Alarms" series explains how to choose motion sensors that ignore cats and dogs, and why PIR sensors can be a pain for pet households. We also share tips on placing sensors away from pet pathways and using “pet‑immune” zones, so your alarm stays armed without the constant beeping.
Finally, privacy concerns aren’t just for hackers. The "Can Someone Really Spy on You Through Your Phone Camera?" guide teaches you how to spot hidden camera apps, lock camera permissions, and cover lenses at night. Pair that with our baby monitor advice – pick models with encrypted feeds and avoid those that double as Wi‑Fi sniffers.
All these posts aim to give you practical, no‑jargon steps. Pick the topics that matter most, try the recommended tweaks, and you’ll feel a lot safer without spending a fortune or learning a new language.