FirstNet Cellular Monitoring
Priority Public Safety Cellular Communications for Alarm Systems | Connecticut
What Is FirstNet?
FirstNet (First Responder Network Authority) is a dedicated nationwide broadband network built exclusively for public safety communications. Established by federal law in 2012 following lessons from the September 11 attacks, FirstNet provides first responders and public safety agencies with a priority, always-available cellular communication channel.
FirstNet allows public safety devices to access cellular bandwidth as the highest network priority — ahead of all other users — even during major disasters or network congestion events when thousands of competing requests are being made.
FirstNet for Alarm Systems
Because professionally-installed security alarm systems serve a critical public safety function — alerting emergency responders to fires, intrusions, and other emergencies — FirstNet has been extended to certified alarm companies. NSC is a certified FirstNet alarm company authorized to transmit alarm signals to our UL Certified Central Monitoring Station via the FirstNet priority cellular network.
This means NSC clients can have emergency alarm signals transmitted over the priority public safety network — ensuring critical signals get through even during major disasters or high-demand events when standard cellular networks may be congested.
Benefits of FirstNet Cellular Monitoring
- Priority cellular network access during emergencies and high-demand events
- Faster alarm signal transmission than standard cellular pathways
- Greater building penetration for reliable signal in traditionally poor-coverage areas
- Expanded geographic coverage including rural and remote locations
- Redundant communication pathway complementing broadband and landline
- Confidence that alarm signals reach the monitoring center when it matters most
Public Safety Band Signal Boosters
NSC also installs Public Safety Band signal boosters that amplify FirstNet signals within buildings for first responders using two-way radio communications inside large or complex structures.
NSC's amplifiers meet NFPA 1221 and IFC Section 510 requirements, supporting 700 MHz (FirstNet Ready) and 800 MHz bands in NEMA-4 rated enclosures. Many new and expanded buildings are required to achieve in-building signal strength of -95 dBm or better with 95% floor coverage.
Certified FirstNet Dealer
Nationwide Security Corporation is proud to be a certified dealer of FirstNet services and to offer FirstNet ready products from our manufacturing partners DMP and Potter.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does FirstNet replace my broadband connection?
No — FirstNet cellular typically serves as a primary or backup pathway alongside broadband. Multiple communication paths create redundancy ensuring alarm signals reach the monitoring center through at least one channel at all times.
Who qualifies to use FirstNet for alarm monitoring?
Only certified alarm companies meeting FirstNet's professional installation standards may use the FirstNet network for alarm communications. NSC's certification confirms compliance with these requirements.