Your basic alarm system has sensors placed on doors and windows and a master control panel. It can be hard wired or wireless systems. This is a more popular choice because of the convenience and ease of installation and they can be moved and reconfigured without much noise. Hard wired systems are a good choice if you have a new house built. Think about where you want your control panel. This is important because the brain is the control system. Some people place their signs near their home. This is useful because it is easier to arm and disarm your way in or out. However, some crafty thieves find this advantageous configuration because they can easily dismantle the system from outside.
Ask yourself if you want or not. This option means that your home will be monitored 24 hours a day, seven days a week. There are monthly fees involved. You however can choose a simpler sensor system with a dialer that connects your phone and call the police or other emergency services if someone entering your house.
A system of ultrasonic sensors will be able to detect movement in the house, not only intruders as your doors and windows. Some alarms can actually partition areas of your home into zones, so some areas are still armed.
You can easily create a panic button or more installed. They will automatically notify the police or other emergency services once pressed. Motion sensors and sound detectors are also more affordable options. These can be installed as separate components and usually when the strobe light is activated.