Difference Between "Proprietary" and "Free and Clear" Security Systems

In this video, Joe talks about what it means for an alarm system to be "proprietary" versus "free and clear". A proprietary security system is one that only works with a particular monitoring company. But a non-proprietary system can be taken over and used with a different alarm monitoring provider.

Many security companies offer proprietary equipment that only works with their service. If a customer tries to take this equipment to a different monitoring company, then it will not work. The system will essentially become useless if the user tries to get it monitored by another service provider. Users should keep this in mind before deciding to use proprietary equipment. They should also do some research beforehand, as a monitoring company will often try and hide the fact that their equipment will only work with their company.

Sometimes, it is isn't the system itself that is proprietary, but rather the communicator inside it. In these cases, the security company will have installed a communicator inside the system that will only work with their monitoring services. But if a user replaces this communicator with a non-proprietary one, then it is likely that the system will be able to be used with a different monitoring company. Many systems have standalone cellular or IP communicators that can be purchased separately.

Alarm Grid only sells equipment that is non-proprietary, and it can always be taken to a different alarm monitoring company if desired. This applies to all of the alarm control panels and communication modules sold on the Alarm Grid website. And since Alarm Grid has no contracts, monitored customers are free to do this at any time. Additionally, Alarm Grid is happy to takeover any equipment that was previously monitored by a different monitoring company. The only requirement is that the equipment is non-proprietary and can be successfully taken over.

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