Apps That Make Your Home Safer While You're Away

That feeling of leaving your home unattended can be frightening, especially when break-ins or unexpected incidents seem to happen more and more. We all know traditional security systems aren’t always an option, since many require contracts, installation fees, or expensive equipment. However, technology is bringing some apps that are built for home security, and they give users the power to monitor their space with nothing more than a smartphone and a stable internet connection.

With the apps listed below, your home safety becomes mobile. Your home, whether it is the front door or garage, can be under your supervision even if you’re across the country. Now, every time you’re traveling for work, taking a vacation, or simply out for the evening, your home doesn’t have to be left unprotected.

Best apps that make your home safer while you’re away

To talk about the best apps to make your home safer, Alfred Home Security Camera (iOS/Android) has become one of the most popular solutions for anyone looking to set up a reliable surveillance system without extra investment.

It takes any spare smartphone and turns it into a smart camera equipped with live streaming and voice communication features.

It’s especially effective when positioned in entry points, like facing doors or windows. The app alerts you the moment it detects movement, even offering instant playback to see exactly what triggered the alert.

For many, it works as an alternative to bulky, costly camera systems that require installation.

On the other hand, SimpliSafe (iOS/Android) can be considered easier to handle because it offers a complete home protection ecosystem.

Meanwhile, its base stations and motion detectors can be paired with external sensors, and the mobile app remains the core control center.

From there, it is possible to monitor real-time updates and even control every aspect of the system.

Overall, both the apps we highlighted above allow users to manage their space remotely when working or traveling.

How to monitor your house in real time with your phone

Turning your phone into a portable control panel to make your home safer means you don’t need third parties to know what’s happening at home.

Since your backup device is plugged in and connected to Wi-Fi, Alfred will give users access to a live camera. The live camera, whenever any movement occurs, has its feed refreshed.

Once set up, you can check in at any time of day. Also, it’s important to note that the app supports night vision and lets you speak through the device like an intercom.

Moreover, depending on your settings, all alerts and many files can be stored in the cloud.

In addition, SimpliSafe expands this by offering layered information: the app combines signals from multiple access points, such as doors or windows. In the end, it also sends a complete status report directly to your screen.

Both SimpliSafe and Alfred simplify complex systems into pretty easy interfaces that even everyone, even less tech-savvy users, can manage without stress.

Turn an old device into a home surveillance camera

Instead of letting unused smartphones collect dust in a drawer, Alfred gives them a second life with real purpose.

Its setup is designed to be foolproof. After installing the app on your main phone and on your older one, you simply link both accounts, position the old device in a fixed location, and begin surveillance instantly.

That said, the best spots are areas with movement flow, or the main hallway.

Consequently, plugging the device into a wall socket ensures continuous recording without battery interruptions.

Also, if you decide to use a phone holder or even a bookshelf, it will probably provide a stable viewing angle.

You can configure it to record automatically when detecting activity, and even restrict access through password protection or multi-user modes.

How to integrate smart sensors and motion detection

While Alfred focuses on video surveillance through repurposed phones, SimpliSafe introduces physical security components such as motion sensors and sound alarms that react to activity beyond a camera’s view.

Installation is straightforward: most sensors come with peel-and-stick backing, meaning no drilling or wall damage.

Once placed, every sensor communicates with your phone. If someone opens a window, steps into a restricted zone, or tampers with a device, you get an alert immediately.

The SimpliSafe app also lets you assign different security modes.

For example: Home, Away, or Off, depending on your schedule. It is also possible to automate activation based on the time of day or create custom routines that match your lifestyle.

The integration of sensors gives you a holistic picture. Cameras show you what’s visible, but sensors fill in the gaps, covering blind spots and offering full environmental awareness.

Tips to improve your home security on a budget

The smartest security improvements to make your home safer often start with the simplest actions.

Begin by analyzing your space, by identifying weak points such as low-lit entrances or rarely used back doors.

These are ideal locations to position old devices running Alfred or to install basic sensors compatible with SimpliSafe.

Also, use motion-detecting lights in outdoor areas, which can be found at low cost and trigger alerts in some smart ecosystems.

Moreover, even basic LED models that simulate occupancy can deter intruders when paired with timers or smart plugs.

Alfred, for instance, offers free versions that already include essential features like real-time viewing and motion alerts. If needed, their premium plans add cloud recording and higher video quality for just a few dollars a month.