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Want a modern security system without having to hook up to a legacy landline? SimpliSafe’s wireless equipment and cellular backup is our top recommendation.
Updated February 13, 2026
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With straightforward DIY installation, high-quality equipment, and competitive pricing starting at $22.99/month for monitoring, SimpliSafe is a comprehensive security system that operates entirely without landlines.
ADT operates 12 monitoring centers across North America and has one of the most extensive professional monitoring networks in the industry. All current ADT systems function without landlines using cellular and internet connections, with monitoring plans starting at $24.99/month.
Monitoring starting at $19.99 per month. combined with frequent equipment promotions from Cove, keeps your security system costs manageable both upfront and long-term, all without requiring a landline connection.
Let’s be honest — most homes no longer rely on landlines. Voicemails are a thing of the past, and now the same tech fits right in our pockets. Yet, many older security systems still depend on landlines to connect with monitoring centers. Even some of the best security systems still offer landline connectivity.
Modern home security systems use Wi-Fi, cellular networks, or both for reliable connectivity. To help you choose, we tested all the top landline-free security systems in our own homes. SimpliSafe came out on top with dependable wireless equipment and cellular backup, keeping your home monitored even when Wi-Fi fails. ADT, Cove, and Frontpoint are also strong alternatives. Here's what you need to know.
We test all home security systems ourselves. We buy the equipment, install the devices in our own homes, and test them for weeks or months. We like to get a feel for the features, app, and response time so we know what it’s like to live with the security system. This is the only way we can give honest recommendations.
Multiple factors come into play when testing home security systems, but we try to compare apples to apples. So we install all the equipment in the same home – a two-story, 2,200-square-foot house owned by one of our experts. Using a real home environment means we get the most accurate results and can share the best recommendations.
We even buy the same equipment for each security system and install the devices in identical locations. You’ll see below where we typically set up our home security equipment.
We looked at multiple factors when choosing the top security systems without a landline. Using our extensive experience in the security industry, here are the aspects we decided were the most important:
Using these criteria to assess the security systems without a landline, here is how we arrived at the top five:
Rating the Best Security Systems Without a Landline
We’re not like one of those websites that write reviews on everything from energy drinks to hard drives. Our team of specialists exclusively reviews security and safety equipment. This means we notice things others might miss, resulting in more accurate and in-depth recommendations. The experts who wrote this review were:
Our experts have over 75 years of combined industry experience, making us the most accomplished home security team online. Since starting in 2016, SafeHome.org has been highlighted in several major outlets, including The Washington Post and The New York Times. Together, we have achieved:
Every recommendation we make is based on first-hand product experience and a thorough understanding of the security industry. Now, let’s find out more about our top picks for security systems that don’t require a landline.
| System |
SimpliSafe
|
ADT
|
Cove Security
|
Frontpoint
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ranking |
1st
|
2nd
|
3rd
|
4th
|
| SecureScore™ | 9.2 | 9.3 | 8.8 | 8.7 |
| Contract length | Monthly | 36 months or monthly with self-setup | Monthly | 36 months or monthly |
| Installation type | DIY or professional | DIY or professional | DIY or professional | DIY |
| Professional monitoring cost | Starting at $22.99 per month | Starting at $24.99 per month | Starting at $19.99 per month | Starting at $44.99 per month |
| Cellular backup network | Verizon | Verizon | AT&T | AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon |
| Equipment cost | Packages starting at $249.96 | Packages starting at $269 | Packages starting at $300 | Packages starting at $69 |
| Review | SimpliSafe review | ADT review | Cove review | Frontpoint review |
As a security system originally made for apartments, it’s no surprise that SimpliSafe doesn’t require a landline. In fact, SimpliSafe no longer sells any components that work with a landline. And it’s one of the best DIY security systems out there. I got the system up and running in about 20-25 minutes, but yours will probably take a bit longer since you’ll want to use the mounting brackets instead of the adhesive strips I used.
SimpliSafe Essentials Kit
Like I said, SimpliSafe has completely moved away from landline connections. Now, they use Wi-Fi as the primary connection with a cellular backup included in monitoring plans. I couldn’t find what cellular network they used, though, even in my package of equipment. So, I reached out to their customer support, and they indicated they use Verizon.
Wireless equipment also works on battery power, though. Both the Wireless Indoor Camera and the Outdoor Camera run on batteries. The only thing I had to hardwire was the video doorbell. It was the most complex piece of SimpliSafe equipment I’ve had to install.
SimpliSafe has made significant improvements to its monitoring services over recent years. These aren’t just marketing claims—I’ve personally noticed the enhancements during my annual testing, though the price has increased accordingly with several adjustments since 2020.
This time, I chose SimpliSafe’s Core monitoring plan at $32.99 per month because I liked the idea of Intruder Intervention. This feature means an agent would talk through my Wireless Indoor Camera whenever they got an alarm from my system and I didn’t respond. Although, the first time it made me jump when all of a sudden there was a strange voice in my living room. I could see some privacy issues here, but there’s a privacy shutter on the indoor security camera I reviewed that I used whenever I was home.
SimpliSafe’s monitoring plans extend beyond Core, though. You can also get standard monitoring for $22.99 per month, or operate completely DIY without any monthly fees. The Plus option is also available at $49.99 per month, which includes Active Guard Outdoor Protection that brings Intruder Intervention-like features to outdoor cameras.
I’ve been mostly singing SimpliSafe’s praises so far, but that’s about to stop. Unfortunately, SimpliSafe doesn’t offer much in terms of smart home capabilities. And if Apple HomeKit powers your smart home, it can’t integrate at all.
Installing a SimpliSafe entryway sensor
For Google Home and Amazon Alexa smart homes, SimpliSafe offers basic integrations letting you control your security system with your voice. You can’t disarm your system with your voice, though. It works with August Locks too, one of the best smart lock brands. I used my system with the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, so it locked and unlocked when I armed and disarmed my SimpliSafe system.
| Monitoring options | Professional and DIY |
|---|---|
| Installation | Professional and DIY |
| Smart platform integration | Alexa and Google Home |
| Equipment cost | Packages starting at $250.96 |
| Monthly monitoring cost | From $22.99 |
| Contract length | Monthly |
Unlike SimpliSafe, ADT still offers landline security systems, but you can get all of their latest equipment without a landline connection. They mostly offer landline equipment for their long-standing customers who’ve used the same ADT system for decades now. With a 150-year-old reputation, ADT’s continuous support for these customers makes us feel more comfortable, despite my desire to avoid using a landline.
Arming my ADT System
Thankfully, even though ADT sells systems that use a landline, you need to specifically opt-in for a landline system. That meant I could look at all of their equipment online when I built my system without worrying about whether or not any specific component needed a landline. For cellular backup, ADT uses Verizon.
The ADT Hub can continue to send alerts to monitoring centers via cellular networks.
When I purchased my ADT system, I received a solid selection of components. While it wasn’t the most extensive setup, I got to test at least one device from every product category. The system was comprehensive enough to come with a significant price tag for professional installation, though it would have been more budget-friendly if I’d chosen ADT Self Setup instead.
I was particularly impressed with the Google Nest Cam during my review, though the professional installation fee makes it expensive. At $279.99 for the device, it’s quite an investment for an outdoor camera—though still more affordable than the Vivint Outdoor Camera Pro I tested.
If you want the most reliable monitoring in the industry, ADT is a great choice. They have 12 state-of-the-art monitoring centers — each equipped with a backup generator. That’s a lot of redundancy. It’s also how they got on top of my roundup of the security systems with the fastest response times.
FYI: Before choosing a company for their cellular backup, make sure you have service with the cellular provider they use. Don’t use the maps that the cellular providers give you to see if you have coverage, though. Use the FCC’s cellular coverage map for an accurate mapping of
ADT consistently earns industry awards for their state-of-the-art monitoring capabilities, which they’re constantly improving. They’ve also made their services significantly more affordable in recent years. Currently, ADT monitoring packages start at $24.99 per month, with additional tiers available based on features and equipment. Considering the level of protection you get, these rates represent excellent value regardless of which one you choose.
Pro Tip: While ADT used to make you sign a long-term contract for their monitoring services, they now offer month-to-month options. I’m all for that flexibility!
I’m particularly impressed with ADT’s SMART monitoring capabilities. SMART stands for System Monitoring and Response Technology, and it sends you immediate text notifications whenever an alarm event occurs. This feature allows you to quickly verify whether the alarm is genuine and ensures emergency responders are dispatched without delay. You can also use their Alarm Messenger service to connect instantly with your emergency contacts to confirm whether the alarm is legitimate. Since most of us are constantly connected to our phones anyway, having an alarm company that works seamlessly with mobile technology is incredibly practical.
Anyone that uses Google smart home products will like ADT a lot. They’re partners with Google and sell Google Nest security cameras. So, the security system integrates really well. I integrated my system with my Nest Hub smart home to let us control the security system with my voice.
Since I got the Nest Hub Max with a decent-sized screen, I could check my Google Nest Doorbell from my kitchen whenever someone was at the door. Then, I could use the two-way audio to let them know I’d be right there and just needed to finish getting the cookies in the oven. Check out the other ways I used my video doorbell in my Google Nest Video Doorbell review. That’s also why I think ADT is the best security system for Google Home.
ADT also integrates with Amazon Alexa and Apple smart home ecosystems, though we found the Google Home integration the most seamless. With Alexa, you can arm and disarm your system using voice commands, but camera integration requires additional setup steps. For Apple users, ADT works with Apple Watch and Apple TV, but doesn’t support Apple HomeKit natively.
>> Learn About: Best Home Security Systems That Work With Alexa in 2026
| Equipment Cost | Packages starting at $269 |
|---|---|
| Monitoring Options | Professional or DIY |
| Monitoring Cost | Starting at $24.99 per month |
| Contract Length | Monthly |
| Installation Options | Professional or DIY |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa and Google Home |
When I tested Cove, I got a police officer at my doorstep. But, don't worry, it was a good thing. I'll get more into that later. Cove is a budget-friendly security system that delivers solid protection without breaking the bank. While it may not have ADT's extensive network of monitoring centers or the option to skip professional monitoring entirely, Cove compensates with reliable equipment, frequent promotional pricing, and monitoring plans that fit most budgets.
All of Cove’s equipment is completely wireless aside from its base station which needs to be plugged in. That came with a 24-hour backup battery, though, in case I lost power, and almost every other component used batteries and Wi-Fi for power and communication. That said, you can hardwire your video doorbell if you want. There’s also cellular backup with the AT&T network.
>> Read About: Eufy Dual Video Doorbell Review 2026
Aside from batteries, I found it pretty interesting that their outdoor camera has a solar panel for power — normally you have to pay extra for that. It did limit where I could install the camera, though. The solar panel is right on top of the camera itself, which makes for a nice aesthetic, but I couldn’t put it under the eaves above my garage, pointing at my driveway, since it wouldn’t get any sun there. I ended up mounting it on the side of my garage. It didn’t look as nice, but the camera never lost power.
One thing to note, all of Cove’s security cameras are manufactured by trusted third-party providers and deliver solid performance. The security cameras impressed me during testing, offering clear video quality and reliable detection capabilities.
Pro Tip: While Cove is one of the most affordable systems out there, there are plenty of other budget-friendly options. Check out my guide to the best affordable home security systems for more information.
Even though Cove doesn’t need to offer much for their monitoring to be worth their low prices, their monitoring is actually pretty impressive. Like I said earlier, it was good enough to bring the police to my doorstep during my test. That’s thanks to an exclusive partnership Cove has with RapidSOS. This technology allows Cove’s monitoring centers to relay information to a 911 dispatcher in real time, meaning the police got to my house before I could even tell Cove I was just running a test.
Unboxing the Cove system.
RapidSOS only comes with Cove’s more expensive monitoring plan at $27.99 per month. You’ll also need that plan for the monitoring to work with your cameras. That said, you can always lower your monitoring to the $17.99 per month plan to save a bit when needed.
Unfortunately, Cove doesn’t do great with smart home integrations. They only integrate with Google Home and Amazon Alexa. That means I couldn’t lock my August Smart Lock when I armed my security system like I could with SimpliSafe. And Cove doesn’t sell any smart locks, either.
That said, I was impressed with the voice control I got with my Google Nest Hub and Amazon Echo. Both gave me complete control of my system with my voice, making it easy to arm the system as I ran out the door. I just wish it had more third-party integrations for smart devices.
| Monitoring options | Professional or DIY |
|---|---|
| Installation | Professional or DIY |
| Smart platform integration | Alexa and Google Home |
| Equipment cost | Packages starting at $300 |
| Monthly monitoring cost | From $19.99 |
| Contract length | Monthly |
To put it bluntly, I used to not really like Frontpoint. It used to be a system I’d recommend you actively avoid. But over the years, Frontpoint took feedback into consideration and made meaningful changes. Nowadays, it has some innovative smart home features, high-quality equipment, and flat-rate monitoring.
Frontpoint equipment
None of Frontpoint’s equipment can even connect to a landline. Actually, Frontpoint takes things even a step further by using your Wi-Fi as a backup to its cellular connection instead of the other way around, like most providers. To my surprise, that didn’t transfer to the wireless capabilities of the system. A good bit of components still needed to be plugged in for power.
It was a bit annoying that the outdoor camera needed to be plugged in. That meant I had to install it within 14 feet of an outlet. I opted to put it over my garage, but then there was a wire hanging down from the camera that got in the way sometimes. Otherwise, I liked the quality of the outdoor camera, especially since Frontpoint upgraded all of its cameras to meet the industry standard 1080p full HD. That gave me clear enough video to read the license plate of cars pulling up my driveway.
When I first saw that Frontpoint offered flat-rate monitoring, I assumed it would be affordable — but the pricing runs higher than expected. Their single monitoring plan costs $49.99 per month as of January 2025. That price felt high at first, but it makes sense once you consider that it runs entirely over a reliable cellular network.
Most security companies stick to a single cellular provider — SimpliSafe uses Verizon, Cove uses AT&T — but Frontpoint takes a different approach. It combines AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon networks, giving you broader coverage and built-in redundancy if one network goes down.
Holding Frontpoint’s door sensor
While I was testing Frontpoint, a snowstorm rolled through and knocked out a Verizon tower. I still had service, though, since the AT&T tower stayed up. That shows the power of Frontpoint’s triple-network system.
Yes, Frontpoint integrates seamlessly with Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant, allowing you to control your security system with virtually any voice-enabled device. But what excites me most about Frontpoint’s smart home capabilities isn’t just the voice control—it’s their geofencing feature.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget your phone! Frontpoint’s geofencing feature works by establishing the system’s proximity to your cell phone. If you leave it at home, it’s not going to work.
Basically, geofencing allowed me to set specific actions for my connected smart devices based on the location of my phone. To give you an example, I set my smart thermostat to kick up the temperature whenever I was home and lower it when I left to cut down on my heating costs.
| Equipment Cost | Packages starting at $99 |
|---|---|
| Monitoring Options | Professional or DIY |
| Monitoring Cost | Starting at $44.99 per month |
| Contract Lengths | Month-to-month |
| Installation Options | DIY |
| Smart Platform Integrations | Google Home, Alexa, and Siri |
Our Vivint test system includes sleek-looking and high-tech equipment, as shown above.
You’ll struggle to find a more high-tech security system than Vivint. Some of the equipment is wireless, and others are connected to your internal wiring, but they all come with cellular monitoring. However, they only have two monitoring centers compared to ADT’s 12 centers.
It also integrates with Google, Alexa, and more than 10,000 smart products through Z-Wave technology. But the reason it’s not higher on our list is because of the price. Vivint is one of the best security systems, but its high equipment prices – not to mention contracts that can be up to five years – can be a hindrance.
Yes, home security systems without landlines are absolutely reliable. While the internet used to be new technology, it’s now a robust infrastructure that spans most of the United States. That means it’s just as reliable as landlines used to be. Sure, it can go out when the power goes down and network issues can happen. But overall, Wi-Fi is as reliable, if not more so, than landlines used to be.
>> Learn More: Does My Wireless Security System Still Work If the Internet Goes Out?
On top of the reliability of your internet connection, the best wireless security systems also use a cellular backup. That means if your internet ever does go down, that cellular backup kicks in to keep your security system fully operational.
A collection of SimpliSafe’s equipment.
Although wireless security systems are completely reliable, you can still get landline systems today, but they’re few and far between. Unless you’re in a specific circumstance that necessitates a landline, I suggest using a security system that doesn’t use a landline. They’re more advanced, easier to use, and more reliable overall.
>> Read more: Best Rural Home Security Systems
I get it, though. There are times when you need to use a landline. Here’s when I’d recommend a security system with a landline:
Essentially, if you can avoid using a system that relies on a landline, you should.
It’s also important that your system is reliable — there were about 4.3 million larceny incidents in 2022 — the most recent year the FBI has compiled the data. Also worth considering:
However you look at it, installing a reliable security system is important for anyone who doesn't want to become a victim.
From Anthony Travaglia, Retired Police Officer, Home Security Expert:
Instead of a landline, modern security systems use the internet and cellular services to communicate your system’s alerts to their monitoring centers. This makes a meaningful improvement to the security of your system. Here’s a quick rundown on the security vulnerabilities of landline systems:
Installing a security camera
There’s no shortage of wireless security options today, but not all landline-free systems are created equal. Some rely on the internet with cellular backup, while others prioritize cellular with Wi-Fi as a backup. Coverage quality also varies depending on the network each provider uses.
We recommend starting with a cell coverage map to see which 4G LTE network performs best in your area, then choose a system that uses that network.
After testing dozens of security systems, my favorite system that doesn’t use a landline is SimpliSafe. The system gives you great value from the equipment to the monitoring. For a high-end option, I suggest ADT.
Yes, some security systems still require a landline. I think those systems are using antiquated technology, though, so I’d recommend an alternative unless your home doesn’t have internet access and cellular coverage. Some systems like ADT also offer a landline connection as an alternative.
Yes, you can still get a security system if your home doesn’t have a landline. In fact, most security systems do not use a landline anymore.
Most security systems require an internet connection if they don’t use a landline. Frontpoint is one of only a few providers that use cellular as the main form of connection with your internet as a backup. So, you can still use their system without an internet connection or a landline.
No, professional monitoring does not require a landline. Your security system can still send alerts to your system’s monitoring centers over the internet or through cellular networks. That’s the way most security systems work nowadays.
