Geofencing Security Systems: How Do They Work?

Editor’s Note: This blog post was originally published in March 2019 and has been revised to reflect industry updates.

You’ve most likely struggled at some point to get from your car to the front walkway while carrying groceries or assisting children and loved ones. What if you could unlock doors, activate lights, and disarm your security system even before entering your home? You can do all of this and more with geofencing technology!

Triggering location-specific actions, geofencing gives users control of integrated household lighting, door locks, thermostats, electronic devices and appliances, and more. It also monitors and manages home security systems including burglar alarms, cameras, and fire and life safety devices.

For example, when pulling into your driveway, such a home security system can detect you’re within 100 feet or less and unlock the front door. Many people have set routines when arriving home from work, school, or vacations—and geofencing remotely manages these with enhanced convenience and comfort.

Paired with the Alarm.com app, these smart modules can be pre-programmed and adjusted from any mobile device.

Here’s a helpful outline of this technology’s many features, benefits, security functions, and more.

What Is the Purpose of Geofencing?

Geofencing can secure your home and property while interconnecting devices, features, and appliances for improved quality of life. Available with smart home security systems, it’s also easy to install.

Using the Alarm.com app, set location and distance to define perimeters and virtual fences around specific points. This provides constant surveillance and prompts alerts when these parameters are breached.

How Does Geofencing Work?

Similar to other smart home devices and security systems, geofencing is controlled and managed via wireless Z-Wave-powered smart hubs or panels.

This smart home technology combines multiple devices and capabilities into one cohesive network. Similar to Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, it features an extensive range. Its virtual fencing can be programmed through the Alarm.com app and accessed by smartphone.

Geofencing Security Benefits

There are many advantages of utilizing geofencing security systems. Here’s a brief rundown of several:

Convenience: Access and control from any mobile device without keys or codes.
Additional Security: Geofencing provides an extra security layer to help keep trespassers and vandals at bay.
Energy Efficiency: Adjusting common household features such as thermostats, lighting, and appliances helps reduce wasted energy, resulting in utility bill savings.
Peace of Mind: Homeowners can rest assured their loved ones, home, and property are well protected.

Geofencing With Smart Security
& Home Automation

Geofencing combines with other smart components to provide comprehensive security coverage and advanced automation—with each capable of being adjusted and controlled individually, or collectively.

Consider the following technologies:

Smart Outlets & LED Bulbs
Thermostats
Security Cameras
Door Locks
Alarm Arm/Disarm
Electronic Devices
Appliances
Sprinkler Systems
Garage Door Openers
Flood & Temperature Sensors
In-Home Sound Systems

Geofencing can secure your home and property while interconnecting devices, features, and appliances for improved quality of life.

How to Set Up Geofencing Scenes

All General Security Smart Home Systems include a geofencing-capable Alarm.com app, with the Scenes function. Devices can also be programmed to change upon location and other variables.

The following are two common examples of Scenes and geofencing:

“Home From Work”

Many homeowners have a daily routine once they pull into the garage or driveway and return from work. This could include switching on lights, adjusting thermostats, and turning on the TV and other electronic devices. With pre-programmed devices activating upon approach, the garage door is already opening, indoor lights illuminating, music softly playing, and temperature adjusting.

“Kids Home From School”

Geofencing can also be coordinated with school schedules, activating many home features and devices as dismissal time draws closer. You can also receive real-time video notifications when your children arrive home. Televisions and electronic devices can power down and sound systems play calming tunes during homework and studying times.