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7 Questions to Ask Before Upgrading Your Security System in Edmonton, AB

By Media Team | June 4, 2025

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Austin Security is a trusted provider of cutting-edge security solutions for businesses and properties across Edmonton and Western Canada.

Don’t Buy Blind—Make an Informed Security Upgrade

Thinking about upgrading your security system? You’re not alone. Across Edmonton, AB, business owners are realizing that outdated or underperforming systems leave their assets, employees, and operations at risk.

But where do you start? With so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by camera specs, monitoring plans, or cloud features. Before you sign any contracts or order new hardware, ask yourself these 7 essential questions. The answers will guide your upgrade and ensure your next security investment is one that actually protects your business.

1. What Are You Trying to Prevent?

Every good security system starts with a clear objective. Are you trying to stop:

Unauthorized access to restricted areas?
Employee theft or time theft?
Yard and inventory theft after hours?
Vandalism or break-ins?

Edmonton business owners face diverse risks depending on location. A cannabis facility in south Edmonton may need perimeter thermal imaging, while a downtown boutique may focus on front door access and interior cameras.

Understanding your priorities helps shape the right solution—and avoid overspending on features you don’t need.

2. Where Are Your Vulnerabilities?

Before upgrading, conduct a thorough walk-through of your property. Look for:

Blind spots in your current camera layout
Poor lighting areas
Unsecured side entrances or loading docks
Gaps in alarm or sensor coverage

Consider bringing in a local expert to conduct a site risk assessment. At Austin Security, we offer free walkthroughs that identify real vulnerabilities based on years of experience in Edmonton-area businesses.

“We thought we were covered until Austin Security pointed out three weak points in our yard perimeter. Fixing those made a huge difference.”
— Fleet Manager, West Edmonton

3. What’s the Current Performance of Your System?

If your existing system is:

Producing grainy or unusable footage
Missing motion triggers
Sending too many false alarms
Regularly offline or outdated

…then it’s time to upgrade.

Outdated technology won’t stop modern criminals who know how to avoid motion zones or recognize unmonitored systems. And if your cameras can’t clearly capture license plates or faces, what’s the point?

4. Do You Need Live Video Monitoring or Self-Monitoring?

One of the biggest decisions in upgrading is choosing between live video monitoring and self-managed systems.

Self-monitoring relies on you or staff getting notifications and reviewing alerts via mobile app.
Live monitoring uses trained professionals to watch your cameras in real-time and take immediate action—including voice warnings and dispatching police.

Businesses in high-theft areas, remote yards, or 24/7 logistics centers often benefit more from live monitoring due to faster response and fewer false alarms.

5. Will Your New System Scale with Your Business?

A common mistake is installing a system that works for now, but becomes outdated or limiting as your business grows.

Ask:

Can I add more cameras later?
Will the system support new locations or mobile sites?
Does it integrate with modern platforms like access control, fire alarms, or cloud storage?

The right system grows with you—not against you.

6. What’s the Reputation of Your Security Provider?

Choosing the right security partner is just as important as choosing the right equipment.

Before committing, ask:

Are they locally based and available for service calls?
Do they have experience with businesses like mine?
Can they show you real case studies or references?
Do they provide 24/7 support and ongoing system management?

In Edmonton, working with a provider like Austin Security means you’re dealing with a team that understands the unique security challenges of our city—and stands behind their work.

7. What Is the Total Cost of Ownership?

Don’t just look at the up-front price. Consider:

Installation costs
Monthly monitoring or maintenance fees
Software or license subscriptions
Potential downtime or repair expenses
Insurance benefits or discounts from upgrading

A well-designed system might cost more upfront, but it can save you thousands in theft prevention, reduced insurance premiums, and improved response times.

“We used to get hit with one break-in a quarter. Since upgrading with Austin Security, we’ve had none. The system paid for itself within six months.”
— Owner, Distribution Center, Leduc

What Should Be Included in a Proper Security Upgrade?

At minimum, a modern upgrade should include:

High-resolution video (at least 1080p)
Mobile access and remote control
Redundant storage (cloud + local)
Alarm integration
Smart motion analytics
Optional live video monitoring

For businesses with outdoor assets or remote locations, mobile surveillance trailers and thermal imaging cameras may also be worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I keep some parts of my current system?
A: Often, yes. We can reuse wiring, power supplies, and sometimes cameras if they meet quality standards.

Q: How long does installation take?
A: Most system upgrades can be completed in 1–3 days, depending on site size and scope.

Q: Can I switch providers without losing data or features?
A: Yes. We’ll make the transition seamless and ensure you retain all footage, settings, and credentials.

Ready to Upgrade? Let’s Talk.

Whether you’re upgrading due to recent theft, insurance requirements, or just peace of mind, Austin Security can help you take the next step.

We offer no-obligation consultations, honest assessments, and fully customized systems that work as hard as you do.

Posted in Security Systems