Build an easy & free home security system in under 5 minutes

The first part of this video is about how to quickly build a free basic home security system in under 5 minutes. I have listed many options for you, but you don’t have to choose all of them, work with what you have and is the best for you. It is easy — if you are a cell phone user, you should be able to do it. It is usable as it is, and will be sufficient for most users.

However, it is also possible to add features which will improve it. To help advanced users, I introduce a couple more phone apps to get you started. Through the explanation of how these apps work I explain the basics of internet and the home gateway router. I show the communications between different devices among different networks. Understanding this diagram will help you to debug all parts of your security system.

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Since it is easy and does not cost anything, why not give it a try? In my neighborhood, burglaries have been increasing. Some people blame this on California’s Prop 47. California’s Proposition 47 downgraded a variety of “non-serious, nonviolent crimes” that had previously been considered felonies to misdemeanors. A thief may now steal something under $950 on a daily basis and it will never rise to felony status. Without your own security cameras, it’s difficult to catch thieves unless they leave fingerprints. One by one my neighbors started buying security cameras and services. Even if you have already bought some cameras, this can complement them by adding even more cameras. I have covered every single one of my windows, and hope that in addition to providing camera footage of any motion around the house, this will also act as a deterrent to possible thieves.

So get your security cameras ready because the latest is that California will end cash bail next year. When the new law takes effect, thieves without money will no longer need to worry about cash bail because by definition theft is not a violent crime.

Since different viewers may have different requirements, here are the URLs you can click to move quickly to find the sections you are interested in:

how to set up the basic app:

how to set up the basic app

how to attach your phone to the windows:

how to attach your phone to the windows

how to improve with a couple more apps:

how to improve with a couple more apps

how to conceal the camera and spy:

how to conceal the camera and spy

how to tie a knot with the waxy dental floss:

how to tie a knot with the waxy dental floss

debug, the gateway router and internet:

debug, the gateway router and internet

For the full video tutorial, visit Genius Asian.

Alternative Methods

A free DIY security system is creative. Here are more comprehensive options.

1. Battery-Powered Smart Security Cameras

When to use: When you want video monitoring without wiring.

Pros: Easy installation, phone alerts, cloud or local storage, night vision, two-way audio
Cons: Battery replacement or charging, subscription for cloud storage, WiFi dependent
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated cost: ~$30-100 per camera, $3-10/month for cloud storage

2. DIY Smart Home Security Kit (Ring, SimpliSafe)

When to use: Comprehensive home protection with door/window sensors, motion detectors, and optional monitoring.

Pros: Self-install, no contract required, professional monitoring optional, expandable
Cons: Monthly monitoring fee, false alarm potential, WiFi dependent
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated cost: ~$150-400 for starter kit, $10-25/month for monitoring

3. Smart Locks and Video Doorbell

When to use: Entry-point security as a first line of defense.

Pros: See who is at the door, grant remote access, auto-lock feature, activity logs
Cons: Battery-powered models need charging, lock mechanisms can jam, WiFi dependent
Difficulty: Easy
Estimated cost: ~$100-250 for doorbell, $100-300 for smart lock

Always verify contractor licensing and insurance in your state. Cost estimates are averages and may vary by location.