Security
When first reviewing the housEvolve system, we were concerned that since it may allow access to the house via the Garage Door Controller and provide the potential for hack access. We were concerned that the lack of an option to lock out all but "trusted" phone numbers would allow hacking with an unfriendly incoming call.
Anderson Micu, CEO of Freevolve LLC responded to this concern in a statement.
"We went to great lengths to protect the security of our customers and believe the system offer the highest level of protection against unauthorized access, even compared to Internet-based technologies.
"First, access from un-trusted numbers is essential in ensuring the maximum homeowner flexibility in accessing their home's environment at any time. As a matter of fact, it is the only reason a remote access pass code is even necessary.
"Second, incorrect password entry attempts result in a communication session reset, causing the system to hang up. This feature, in combination with the voice interface used for remote interaction, makes our system immune from automated password capture attempts - not to mention the time constraints and costs placed on the would-be hackers if they attempted to do it in person. Each re-dial involves new connection charges at the originating party, while in-coming calls do not incur charges on a land line. Another issue is that of visibility. A comprehensive hacker attack through an Internet connection, for instance, is virtually undetectable by ordinary users. The same cannot be said for a phone line, tied-up for extended periods.
"Third, the length of the password field places the homeowner in the position to balance security concerns with ease of use in such ways as to best match their individual requirements.
"Since housEvolve only remains connected to the outside world for the duration of a communications session, it is far safer than other technologies. High-speed, broadband Internet connections are far more vulnerable to attack, both because an always-on connection allows automated password capture attempts and because system complexity opens security vulnerabilities at numerous software layers."
Wrap-up
FREEVOLVE seems to have created one of those products that we always needed, but just never recognized. The use of housEvolve for the control and monitoring of remote properties should be considered by owners of multiple properties. Beyond this intended market, this central system may be attractive also to owners of single residences purely for the centralized monitoring and control capabilities that it offers.
Warranty
The warranty support is handled through their distributor, http://www.diycontrols.com. All FREEVOLVE products are covered against manufacturing defects for a period of two years from the date of purchase.
About FREEVOLVE
FREEVOLVE LLC is an American company. “FREEVOLVE LLC is a designer and manufacturer of a new generation of electronic home monitoring systems, improving the way technology is used to protect your home or business. FREEVOLVE was established to offer a home monitoring system that actually allows you to manage your home remotely.” (FREEVOLVE, 2009; http://www.freevolve.com/who-we-are.html)
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