Do alarm systems need a phone line?
Christopher Pierce
Published Feb 19, 2026
Do alarm systems need a phone line?
No, you do not need a phone line for a security system. In fact, we recommend that you don’t use a phone line with a security system. Phone lines are often unreliable, and telephone service provides slow communication speeds. There are many superior options for alarm monitoring service.
How is alarm connected to phone line?
Traditional phone lines use a copper line to send the communication signal to the alarm monitoring company. The phone line is typically used by both the household and the alarm system.
How do I connect my alarm to my landline?
You can wire a POTS line to your security system by first wiring an incoming phone line to an RJ jack. The RJ jack will then connect to the on-site landline phones and to the alarm system. Your security system must be compatible with pots service in order to use this type of communication.
How many phone lines are required for a fire alarm system?
two
Most fire alarm control panels (FACP) currently use two traditional phone lines to meet an older requirement of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code.
Can you have an alarm system without a landline?
You can buy a security system without a landline, or a landline security system. Typically, a security system without a landline uses cellular technology to communicate with the security company’s monitoring center. A landline security system uses your home telephone line to reach the monitoring center.
Can you have WIFI without telephone line?
Virgin Media is the only major cabled broadband provider within the UK to provide broadband without a phone line, due to the fact that it has its own fibre broadband network separate from BT’s. There are plenty of mobile broadband providers which don’t require a landline (or any cables) to work.
Are POTS lines going away?
Major telephone providers have already started phasing out their support of analog POTS lines – promising for a full phase-out, nationwide. These adjustments are pushing customers to look at other options to replace copper telephone connections.
Is NFPA 72 mandatory?
1. Does NFPA 72®, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code® require fire alarm systems to be installed? No. NFPA 72 only provides requirements for the installation, performance, testing, inspection, and maintenance of the fire alarm system.
Can you have WiFi without telephone line?
What kind of license does GE Security have?
GE Security hereby grants the purchaser of this product a limited, non-exclusive license to practice the methods patented in the identified patents solely with products manufactured, sold or licensed by GE Security. This license grant does not extend to the use of unlicensed, third party products with this product.
Can a security system be voided by GE Security?
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by GE Security can void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. FCC Part 15 Class B This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Can a cellular alarm system work on a landline?
The good news is that some security companies offer cellular modules to convert your system from landline monitoring to cellular monitoring. The module transmits alarm signals to the monitoring center using cellular signals, so even if your landline is cut, your security system will still work.
What to do with existing home security / alarm systems?
For example, a new ADT security system with cellular monitoring or landline monitoring or Honeywell security systems, signing up for the monitoring service with the monitoring service providers or companies seems like a reasonably nice way to shore up your home security.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by GE Security can void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. FCC Part 15 Class B This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules.
GE Security hereby grants the purchaser of this product a limited, non-exclusive license to practice the methods patented in the identified patents solely with products manufactured, sold or licensed by GE Security. This license grant does not extend to the use of unlicensed, third party products with this product.
How is a phone line used in an alarm system?
Traditional phone lines use a copper line to send the communication signal to the alarm monitoring company. The phone line is typically used by both the household and the alarm system. Traditional phone lines are known as the most reliable of the services.
How to contact the GE Digital Customer Center?
1 1-800-433-2682 2 1-617-725-2696 (if toll free 800 option is unavailable) 3 Phone Map