Just like any other industry, the home security business is constantly adapting and evolving to the rapid advances in technology. Just 150-plus years ago, the first patent on electromagnetic burglar alarms was issued to Augustus Pope, who applied then-revolutionary discoveries about electricity to create a groundbreaking security device.

Today, the face of home security is changing again. But this time, it's breakthroughs in wireless technology that are paving the way.

Traditional, hard-wired alarm systems are now being replaced by high-tech wireless systems as the industry standard. Not only are these new systems more portable, flexible and easier to install, they are also changing the size and scope of home security in ways once never thought possible.

Home security becomes home automation
When most people hear the words "home security system", they immediately think of loud sirens and burglars. But when future generations hear those words, their minds will undoubtedly be filled with different images.

Why? Two words: Home automation.

We currently live in a world of gizmos and gadgets: iPods, iPads, iPhones, 3D televisions. And the list goes on.

These devices play such an integral role in our everyday lives, whether it's for business, pleasure or communication. Home automation allows consumers to simplify all of these technological devices into one user-friendly application.

High-profile home security companies are changing rapidly to integrate home automation into their services. For example, home security giant ADT (check out homesecuritysystems.com to learn more), unveiled ADT Pulse in 2010, which gives customers an unprecedented level of accessibility and control over their home.

Here are some of the things you can do with a "smarthome:"

• Arm and disarm your home security system remotely using your smartphone, computer or tablet
• Adjust and monitor your thermostat remotely
• Adjust and monitor your blinds and lighting remotely
• Control electrical appliances and set schedules to automate them
• Receive real-time text, phone or email notifications of events at your home.
• Watch live surveillance video of your home through your web-enabled device

The future of home security
Just a handful of years ago, smarthome technology was only found in The Jetsons and futuristic Hollywood films. Now, home automation is not only a reality, but a rapidly growing business as well.

According to global manufacturer Ingersoll Rand, the industry will surge to $2.5 billion in two years - a 30 percent growth in the number of households with home automation systems. As home automation continues to move into the mainstream, the technology powering it will only continue to grow, expand and improve.