home security library

Good home security allows you to enjoy your house and relax. Learn how various home security systems work and how to maintain a secure home.

How Lock Picking Works

Featured Article: How Lock Picking Works

In movies, burglars can open a lock using a paper clip. Is it really so easy? The basic process of picking a lock is simple, but it takes a lot of practice to get it right. See more »

How a Panic Room Works

How a Panic Room Works

Today's high-tech panic rooms are a far cry from fallout shelters of the past. You can have a basic reinforced closet -- or a luxury security den with an arsenal of weapons.

See more »
How Burglar Alarms Work

How Burglar Alarms Work

Security systems can range from do-it-yourself kits for $10 to sophisticated whole-house networks installed by professionals. But most alarm systems are actually built around the same basic design concepts.

See more »
How Combination Locks Work

How Combination Locks Work

They keep the contents of your school locker safe. They secure precious documents and monetary instruments. Some of them can even take a bullet. Learn about what's going on inside combination locks.

See more »
How does a master key work?

How does a master key work?

The super of our apartment building is always going into everyone's apartment when something needs to be fixed. There must be a hundred apartments, but he only carries one key around with him. How does he get into all those apartments with the same key?

See more »
How Emergency Power Systems Work

How Emergency Power Systems Work

Most of us are entirely dependent on electricity, so a power outage can become seriously annoying. Learn about the generators and inverters that can put an end to home power failures.

See more »
How Lock Picking Works

How Lock Picking Works

In movies, burglars can open a lock using a paper clip. Is it really so easy? The basic process of picking a lock is simple, but it takes a lot of practice to get it right.

See more »
How Locks Work

How Locks Work

This set of articles includes explanations of lockpicking and safecracking, as well as the mechanical workings of many of the most common types of locks.

See more »
How Safecracking Works

How Safecracking Works

People use safes to keep their valuables, well, safe. But in movies, thieves can open one using a little concentration and a good ear. Could you crack a safe that easily?

See more »
How Stun Guns Work

How Stun Guns Work

You know those phasers used by Captain Kirk and Spock? That technology isn't really so far off. Stun guns fall into the category of non-lethal weaponry -- they can incapacitate a person without causing permanent damage.

See more »
Inside a Combination Lock

Inside a Combination Lock

A fascinating look inside a combination lock!

See more »
Lock Picking Quiz

Quiz Corner: Lock Picking Quiz

How much do you really know about lock picking? Test your smarts with this quiz.

See more »
Top 10 Simple Ways to Prevent Break-ins

Top 10 Simple Ways to Prevent Break-ins

You don't have to buy an alarm system to prevent burglaries. Criminals take the path of least resistance. If your home looks lived-in and if your neighbors seem nosey, you're preventing crime.

See more »
What's the best way to prevent a thief from entering your home?

What's the best way to prevent a thief from entering your home?

To prevent a home invasion, locking your doors with deadbolts should be the first line of defense. But what if that's not enough? What's the best way to keep your home safe?

See more »
Child-Safety Tips

Child-Safety Tips

Little children are masters at finding the dangers that lurk in your home, and this worries parents to no end. But there are precautions you can take to all but eliminate the dangers. Learn more.

See more »
Home-Security Tips

Home-Security Tips

While it's difficult to protect your home from professional thieves, most home burglaries are done by amateurs. These thieves are more easily thwarted if you employ some of the following security precautions.

See more »
How to Install a Home Security System

How to Install a Home Security System

Some home security systems are complex and should be installed by a professional. However, there are good home security systems sold in kit forms that you can install yourself. Learn instructions for this project.

See more »
How to Install a Lockset

How to Install a Lockset

New doors need a lockset. Some doors come predrilled for standard-size locksets, others will require drilling. Mortises also need to be cut for the lockset and strike plate. Learn the details to install a lockset.

See more »

videos: home improvement & diy