One of the many manufacturers' alarm panels the Epic Alarm installs in its clients’ homes and business are manufactured by a company called 2GIG.
Occasionally one of our customers may ask us about the security and reliability of using a wireless system. We have worked with 2GIG and prepared the following fact sheet.
1. Communication and Security
- Dedicated Communication Path: The 2GIG panel is designed to dial out only to the monitoring station registered to the system. This ensures that the panel communicates exclusively with a designated number, enhancing security.
- Limited Wi-Fi Exposure: The main panel's interaction with secondary keypads over Wi-Fi is the primary instance where Wi-Fi is used, minimizing exposure to potential Wi-Fi-based attacks.
2. Encryption and Hacking Prevention
- E-Series Encryption: The E-Series panels and sensors use encryption, specifically AES-128 bit encryption, which provides robust protection against interception and hacking. Each time a sensor is triggered, it changes its frequency, making it difficult for any interceptor to capture and reuse the signal.
- Non-Internet Exposure: The system is not generally exposed to the internet, reducing the risk of hacking attempts. Communication primarily occurs within the local network or via dedicated cellular paths for monitoring.
3. Handling Wi-Fi Jammers
- Dual-Path Communication: Many 2GIG systems, including the E-Series, utilize both Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity. If a Wi-Fi jammer disrupts the Wi-Fi signal, the system can switch to cellular communication to maintain functionality.
- Encrypted Wi-Fi: When the system does use Wi-Fi, such as for communication between the main panel and secondary keypads, it relies on the home's encrypted Wi-Fi network, adding another layer of security.
Detailed Features and Security Comparison
To better understand the security features, here's a comparison between 2GIG E-Series and non-E-Series systems:
Benefits of 2GIG E-Series Systems
The 2GIG E-Series systems offer several key benefits:
- Enhanced Security: The use of AES-128 encrypted sensors and AI-driven analytics provides robust security measures that protect against potential threats.
- Smart Home Integration: Seamless integration with smart home devices enhances the overall functionality of the system, allowing users to create a comprehensive smart home environment.
- User-Friendly Interface: The systems are designed to be intuitive and easy to use, making them suitable for both professional and DIY installations.
- Scalability: The E-Series is scalable, allowing users to expand their system as needed. This makes it suitable for various property sizes and security requirements.
Final Thoughts
The 2GIG E-Series systems are at the forefront of home security and automation technology. With advanced features like touchless disarm, AI-driven analytics, and smart home integration, these systems provide robust security and convenience. The use of AES-128 encryption ensures secure communication, making these systems a reliable choice for modern security needs. Whether for a small home or a large business, the 2GIG E-Series offers a scalable and user-friendly solution that meets modern security requirements.
In summary, it is extremely rare for wireless security to be hacked, but if you have specific concerns due to a higher risk application within your home or business, we definitely recommend reaching out to us and discussing options for an encrypted system, hard-wired system or additional security measures to protect you.