Many people have computers to work on and to play on. They use them to research topics, watch movies and chat with family and friends. However, there is one use for the PC that many people do not consider until after the fact and that is for home security. Using a computer can help you keep your home more secure, and what's more, most of the security tasks can be done without any actions on your part, once you get the system set up.

One of the most common ways to use your computer as a home security system is as a recorder. You would connect your video surveillance equipment to your computer and allow your hard drive to capture any events that occur within range of the cameras. This is much more convenient than recording used to be because it is all digital now, so you don't have to worry about changing tapes or running out of space on a disc. With today's technology, you can even set up your surveillance system to only record when motion is detected by the cameras. This saves energy and space on your hard drive.

Another way that your PC can act as a home security system is by connecting it to an alarm system. This way, you do not have to be in front of your computer at all times of the day and night monitoring your system. You can program your computer to sound an alarm when certain entry points to your home are accessed. At that point, the more sophisticated computer security systems can notify authorities and get them to your house quickly. This would remove the need for a third-party monitoring system, which is a common component of most commercial home security systems. The initial setup of this kind of computer system might be expensive, but you won't have to pay for monitoring every month, so in the end, it might actually be more cost effective to use your computer instead of a company.

One of the best benefits of using a PC as a home security system is that you can keep an eye on your home even if you are on vacation or at work. With most smart phones these days, you can link up to your computer and monitor the activity that occurs in your home. If you see anything out of the ordinary you can contact the authorities and protect your home even when you can't physically be there.

You probably already have a computer in your home. Now's your chance to use it to make your home and your family safer.