Does the IQ5 Hub Require Professional Monitoring?

No, the IQ5 Hub does not require professional monitoring to function as a security system. The panel operates as a fully capable local alarm without any subscription plan. You can arm, disarm, and receive local siren alerts without paying for monthly service from a monitoring company.

However, adding a monitoring and interactive service plan unlocks the system’s full potential. With a subscription, you can use the Alarm.com app for remote access, receive real-time alerts, control smart home devices, store video in the cloud, and have emergency signals sent to a central monitoring station for dispatch, if warranted.

Local Alarm Functionality

The IQ5 Hub (available in AT&T LTE and Verizon LTE) functions independently as a complete security system without requiring any monitoring subscription. When an alarm is triggered, the panel sounds its built-in 85dB siren to alert you and anyone nearby. The 7-inch touchscreen displays sensor status, allows you to arm and disarm the system, and provides access to control Z-Wave and PowerG automation devices. The panel supports PowerG sensors, PowerG Automation, Z-Wave devices, and Bluetooth disarming, all of which work without monitoring service.

Benefits of Professional Monitoring

While the IQ5 Hub works without monitoring, adding a plan significantly expands what the system can do. At Alarm Grid, we offer flexible options so you can choose the level of protection and connectivity that fits your needs and budget. Many alarm dealers require central station monitoring, which is often more expensive.

For users who want the highest level of protection, full central station monitoring provides 24/7 professional response. If an alarm occurs, trained operators attempt to contact you and can dispatch emergency services when needed. The IQ5 Hub supports dual-path communication using LTE cellular and WIFI when available for reliable signal transmission to the monitoring center. For Alarm Grid customers, this would be the Full Gold Plan or Full Platinum Plan, which adds support for video monitoring. Check out what's included with an Alarm.com video plan.

If you prefer connectivity without dispatch, self-monitoring plans provide access to the Alarm.com mobile app. You can arm and disarm remotely, receive real-time alerts via text, email, and push notifications, view system activity, and control compatible smart home devices (Self Gold plan or higher for Alarm Grid customers) from your smartphone. This option gives you full remote access while allowing you to handle any alarm events yourself.

We also offer cellular alarm monitoring without app-based remote access, as well as video-only monitoring options. Cellular alarm monitoring provides central station monitoring over a cellular connection but does not include Alarm.com controls or notifications. Video-only monitoring is exactly what it sounds like: the ability to monitor video cameras through the Alarm.com app without an alarm panel. Both options are streamlined, lower-cost solutions for customers who want either professional dispatch without interactive features or the ability to visually monitor their property without an alarm system.

What Works Without Monitoring

Without monitoring service, the IQ5 Hub provides local alarm functionality including siren activation, entry and exit delays, sensor chimes, user code management with up to 242 codes, and partition support for up to 4 separate areas. You can add PowerG sensors for long-range encrypted wireless communication, integrate Z-Wave smart home devices and PowerG automation devices, and use Bluetooth for convenient touchless disarming.

The touchscreen interface displays weather information, supports Photo Frame mode, and provides access to all system settings using the Installer Code (default is 1111). Some settings can also be accessed using the Master Code (default is 1234). These features operate entirely on the local system without any monthly fees or external service requirements. You will be the master of your domain! That is, as long as you're inside your domain.

Understanding your monitoring options helps you get the most value from your IQ5 Hub. Whether you choose to use the panel as a local-only alarm or add professional monitoring service, the system delivers reliable security for your home. For help with monitoring options or other configurations on your IQ5 Hub, contact the Alarm Grid support team. We're here Monday - Friday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM Eastern Time. Email us at support@alarmgrid.com. You can also call us at 888-818-7728 or visit our website and chat with a live support agent.