What feature allows an alarm system to be controlled remotely?

The ability to control an alarm system remotely is primarily facilitated by smartphone applications or web interfaces. These technologies allow users to access and manage their alarm systems from anywhere with an internet connection, providing convenience and flexibility.

With these applications, you can receive real-time alerts, monitor system status, arm or disarm the system, and even view live video feeds if the alarm system is integrated with security cameras. This level of remote control enhances user experience and improves security by allowing quick responses to alerts, regardless of the location.

While hardwired connections, manual keypads, and local network access play various roles in an alarm system's functionality, they do not offer the same level of remote interaction. Hardwired connections imply a physical connection to the system, manual keypads require physical presence to enter commands, and local network access may provide some functionalities but typically does not extend control to users outside the premises without additional remote access technologies. Thus, smartphone applications or web interfaces are clearly the key features that enable effective remote controlling of an alarm system.