A software update is pretty much required these days, and they seem to be needed on every piece of tech we own; smart phones, laptops, even our smartwatches need to upgrade its software or firmware to keep functioning properly. With new cooperative peripherals coming out for these devices, or new applications, in some cases these updates are REQUIRED to run these new programs. If it seems like your devices are always updating, that’s because they are. Software is always trying to keep up with the hardware and applications to help extend the life of these devices.
Software updates are also pretty important to keep up with because they often protect us from bugs or, in more serious cases, hackers. Our devices also develop software updates to offer a better user-experience for the customer. They also help us maintain our equipment.
If you’re not sure if your security equipment is in need of a software update, get in touch with your home security company. Perhaps your security provider sends out correspondence discussing new updates to your equipment’s software. To know if an update is worthwhile from a user’s perspective, checkout company forums and search for discussions surrounding new updates for insight. Or simply Google the name of the software update. Maybe someone has put together an article with helpful answers that can bring you closer to a decision.
Software Updates
Hardware is often built to scale, or to do much more than it typically does on the day it launches. While developers are able to publish software updates and push them out through the web, some products in the security space still don’t have the capability of receiving these updates OTA or “over the air”.
Smart home security technology is advancing—quickly. Software updates will be required to keep up with new applications and new pieces of equipment (that haven’t even been invented yet).
Over the Air vs Manual Software Updates
If your current smart home security panel does not support over the air updates, you will need to have a technician assist with the update. They will need to schedule a time to come out, plug their laptop in to your panel, and push the new software update MANUALLY. This is time-consuming and can be costly in more ways than one. For example, you may have to time off from work to oversee the technicians at home. You may also have to pay potential technician work fees.
Some home security systems getting installed do not accept OTA updates. These older style panels are often running an older version of software that will require updates soon after install.
Similar to your smartphone, if these software updates aren’t done, the hardware DOES NOT WORK PROPERLY. If you are paying each month for monthly monitoring, and using old technology, you are not getting what you pay for.
Benefits of OTA Updates
OTA updates are convenient and time-saving. The automatic improvements to your system means you get to enjoy new features and security enhancements without having to do really anything. Unfortunately, most OTA updates require a secure internet connection. So if you have a spotty connection, then OTA updates might not be ideal. Additionally, some OTA updates have issues completing fully. Errors like these might require additional tinkering or a phone call to your home security provider.
The Qolsys IQ Panel 2 has a dual-path connection to the web (LTE/Wi-Fi). The panel also does its very own over the air updates. ONIT Smart Home exclusively installs the Qolsys IQ Panel 2. This award-winning touch-screen alarm panel connects your security devices together for complete automation and 24/7 protection. We especially love this panel’s built-in camera and glass-break detector that contribute even more security to your home. If you’re tired of manually updating your panel or wish to install an alarm panel capable of OTA software updates, the IQ Panel 2 is a great option. To learn more about how the IQ2 panel can protect your home and family, click here.
Benefits of Manual Updates
One of the biggest benefits to manual updates is that they revolve around the user’s preferences. What we mean by this is that if you, for whatever reason, don’t want your system to update without your approval, it simply won’t if you choose to go manual. You make all the decisions with manual updates. However, this can be a drawback if you forget to update the system.
To learn more about protecting your home, speak with the security experts at ONIT! We’re happy to answer any questions you may have about keeping your equipment up-to-date. We can also help you find the best security products for your specific set of needs. From doorbell cameras to motion sensors, we can create a connected and secure ecosystem in your space. Whatever your home needs, we’re ONIT! Get in touch with us today at 1-833-433-0331!