Can I Use WIFI as Primary and GSM as Backup on my Qolsys IQ Panel 2?

When both WIFI and Cellular communication are enabled on the Qolsys IQ Panel 2, the system will send all signals on both paths at once. Alarm.com will process the signal received first, acknowledge it, and forward it to the monitoring station. The second signal received will be ignored.

In order to utilize Alarm.com services with your IQ Panel 2, the system will need to use a cellular connection. However, it is still advantageous to add a WIFI connection as an additional communication method because of the faster speeds that WIFI will generally provide when compared with cellular. That being said, cellular communication is still important, as it will usually be available, even when the WIFI connection is down due to power outage, tampering, or weather.

Cellular communication is usually considered to be more reliable than WIFI communication. This is because it is relatively common for WIFI signals to go down, while cellular signals are available nearly 100% of the time. Alarm.com has recognized this, and they have mandated that any system that uses their platform must be connected to a cellular network in some way.

By using WIFI communication in addition to cellular, you will receive the fast speeds of WIFI, along with the added reliability of cellular. If WIFI is ever down, you will still be connected to the network, and your home will still be monitored. This makes the WIFI and cellular combo an ideal solution.

The Qolsys IQ Panel 2 is one of the best systems to use with a cellular connection. The system comes included with a built-in cellular module that provides the panel with a 4G LTE connection for a fast response time. Depending on the panel you purchase, your panel will receive service from either Verizon or AT&T. It is recommended that you choose whichever carrier typically provides stronger service in your area.

In order to use cellular, you will need to choose a plan from your monitoring company which includes cellular service. This will not impact your personal cellular bill, and doesn't necessarily have to use the same carrier you use for your personal cell service, though if you know your existing carrier provides a strong signal in your area, you may want to stick with that carrier. The fees you pay to the monitoring company will include any fees associated with the alarm panel's cellular service.