Elena Donovan Mauer

SecurityNerd author

Elena Donovan Mauer

Elena Donovan Mauer has written for Real Simple, Self, Good Housekeeping, Parents, The Knot, The Bump, and other publications. Elena is also a soccer mom, adjunct professor and taco enthusiast, who can be found antique shopping and singing in her kitchen. She lives in the Hudson Valley of New York with her husband and two sons.

Articles by Elena Donovan Mauer

23 published entries in this archive.

ADT Home Security Review

ADT Home Security Review

ADT might be a bit pricier than some of the alternatives, but the top-notch monitoring and variety of smart home features make it worth it.

Ring Security Cameras Reviewed

Ring Security Cameras Reviewed

For renters and homeowners who aren’t looking to make a major investment or sign a long-term monitoring contract, Ring is a solid choice.

ADT vs. Ring

Home Security

ADT vs. Ring

Both are really good choices, so cost and features may be your biggest factors in deciding between Ring or ADT. Check out our comparison.

Ring vs. Vivint

Home Security

Ring vs. Vivint

In the choice between Ring vs Vivint, the decision might come down to which equipment you prefer, and what type of installation you want.

Frontpoint vs Protect America

Home Security

Frontpoint vs Protect America

In the battle of Frontpoint vs Protect America, we went with Frontpoint because it offers more package options, and has an easy DIY setup.

Frontpoint vs. ADT

Home Security

Frontpoint vs. ADT

Two big names in home security, but which one is the better choice? Check out our comparison of Frontpoint vs. ADT before you decide.

SimpliSafe vs. ADT

Home Security

SimpliSafe vs. ADT

This in-depth guide will make it easier to pick your own personal winner in the showdown between SimpliSafe vs. ADT.

Best Security Systems

Best Security Systems

When it comes to choosing a home security system, there is no best company or package. We break down the best choices for a variety of needs in this review.

What Is A Security System Key Fob?

Home Security

What Is A Security System Key Fob?

A security system key fob is a portable device used to control a security system from different parts of the home.

Vivint Security Review

Vivint Security Review

Vivint offers good service, a user-friendly mobile app and tons of options to integrate with popular smart home products.

11 Things To Do If Your House Floods

Disasters

11 Things To Do If Your House Floods

If a flood happens, the most important thing is that you and your family are safe. Here's 11 tips to keep in mind in the event of a flood.

Night Owl Security

Night Owl Cameras Review

Night Owl may be worth considering it you really want to make a one-time camera purchase and then do everything else yourself.

The Best Pet GPS Trackers and Collars

Pets

The Best Pet GPS Trackers and Collars

If you’ve got a pooch or kitty who loves to roam free, a GPS pet tracker can help you keep tabs on them. We recap the top 6 pet GPS trackers.

6 Safest First Phones For Kids

Personal Safety

6 Safest First Phones For Kids

Our SecurityNerds reviewed six kid-safe phones, each of which offers great features for families and makes an great choice for a first phone.

zmodo outdoor camera

Zmodo Cameras Reviewed

Overall, Zmodo cameras are a good choice if you want a low-cost security camera system that you can install and monitor yourself.

What To Do If Your House Is On Fire

Disasters

What To Do If Your House Is On Fire

We hope a house fire never happens to you, but knowing what to do if does could literally save you and your family's life.