Even if you live in a relatively safe neighborhood, solid home security is always a good idea. If you're a new homeowner, you want to make sure that your family and belongings are safe at all times.

One of the best ways to do so is to invest in a home security system.

In today's age, smart home security systems lead the fray. These new systems are complex, sophisticated, and work with the internet of things.

So if you're interested in getting a home security system, you've come to the right place. Stay tuned to learn the basics of what home security systems include.

Check Your Homeowner's Policy First

The first step is to take a look at your homeowner's insurance policy. Many policies will give you a discount on your premiums if you have a security system.

These discounts can range anywhere from 2% to 10%, so be sure to look at your policy.

If you're on the fence about installing a home security system, this perk can be an influential factor.

Don't forget to give your insurance agent a call to see which companies are eligible. You see, not every home security company will qualify for your policy's discounts. That will help you narrow down which company to use.

The Components of a Home Security System

Now let's take a look at what an intelligent home security system entails. Some homeowners prefer to take a DIY approach to home security. That means they compile all the elements of a security system individually. Here's the essential gear any home security system needs to have:

• Central alarm monitoring station. The central station verifies the validity of a tripped alarm before notifying authorities. Security companies often have existing relationships with UL-listed stations. Most insurance companies offer discounts for systems with central alarm monitoring.

• Motion sensors. These act as a second line of defense if the intruder can trick the door and window sensors. The most sophisticated sensors will detect heat and motion. They can even distinguish a pet from a person.

• Signage. Stickers and signs are simple forms of defense, but they act as great deterrents. Sometimes all it takes to ward off an intruder is a sign letting them know you have an alarm system.

• Control panel. This is the central hub of the entire system. It communicates with all the devices, including the sensors, alarms, keypads, and more.

• Door/window sensors. These are your first line of defense in the home. They detect if anyone tries to open or tamper with your doors and windows at night or when the system is active.

• Sirens. If an intruder is to trip any of the sensors, the sirens will go off. These tend to be very loud and shrill as to ward off the intruder. The sirens also have separate tones for intruders and fires.

• Environmental sensors. Burglars aren't the only thing that security systems are trying to catch. Other sensors include smoke detectors, heat detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and more. These will notify you if an environmental hazard has broken out, such as a fire.

• Keypads and apps. Finally, we have the keypads and apps. These are what you use to control your security system. You can customize your security codes for an extra layer of protection.