# Get Started with Verkada Classic Alarms

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This article is a guide for classic Alarms. Refer to this [article](https://app.gitbook.com/s/NU1He6Uj2tgInV2VdCLQ/getting-started/getting-started-with-verkada-alarms) if you have new Alarms. See [New Alarms vs Classic Alarms](https://app.gitbook.com/s/NU1He6Uj2tgInV2VdCLQ/getting-started/new-alarms-vs-classic-alarms) if you are unsure which version of Alarms you have.
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Verkada [Alarms](https://docs.verkada.com/docs/alarms-professional-monitoring-overview.pdf), also known in the industry as *intrusion detection* or simply *intrusion*, provide fully integrated, 24/7 professional monitoring with emergency dispatch services. You can use your existing Verkada devices without purchasing any additional hardware.

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You need Org Admin and/or Site Admin [permissions](https://app.gitbook.com/s/NRq5qDDjsYNxwNzF1bcB/users-and-permissions/roles-and-permissions-for-command) for your Verkada Command organization to complete these actions.
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### What you need

* PoE-enabled switch or PoE injector
* DHCP-enabled network
* Cat5 or Cat6 cabling

## Create a site

Sites are the logical way of grouping and managing devices within your Command organization. Site-level permissions make managing and viewing your devices easier. See [Alarms Sites](https://help.verkada.com/classic-alarms/configuration/configure-classic-alarms-site-settings/classic-alarms-sites) for more information on site creation and management.

### Configure settings

The Alarms site settings page allows you to configure various settings, such as alarm triggers, arm/disarm schedules, alarm responses, and more. Each site’s settings can be uniquely configured to suit your security needs. See [Configure Alarms Site Settings](https://help.verkada.com/classic-alarms/configuration/configure-classic-alarms-site-settings) for more information.

## Add Alarms devices

You can add an Alarms device from the **Devices** page. See [Add a Device to Your Command Account](https://app.gitbook.com/s/NRq5qDDjsYNxwNzF1bcB/organization-settings/add-a-device-to-your-command-organization) for more information.

## Licensing

Most Alarms devices you manage in Command will need a license. Verkada licensing is applied for each Command organization, and the licenses co-term to a single expiration date. Your licenses may have been automatically added if you claimed your devices via order number. Otherwise, manually add the licenses from the Admin page. See [Manage Your Licenses](https://app.gitbook.com/s/NRq5qDDjsYNxwNzF1bcB/licensing/manage-your-licenses) for more information on adding and managing licenses.

## Connect your Alarms devices

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While Verkada Alarms devices are considered low-voltage devices that do not require a certified electrician to install, we strongly recommend you work with a system integrator or other professional for installation.
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Please refer to the device [setup guide](https://www.verkada.com/docs/?product=alarms\&contentType=setupGuide) for installation instructions.

#### Powered and network

The Alarms devices are powered in various ways.

* The Alarms consoles, hub, and horn speaker use Power over Ethernet (PoE) for power and communication over the LAN. In most cases, these devices need to connect directly to a standard switch. PoE injectors can be used when a PoE switch is not available.
* The Alarm panel is powered via AC power and connects to your network via Ethernet.
* The wireless relay is powered via DC power.
* The wireless Alarms devices are powered by CR123A lithium batteries.

For more information on power and network requirements, see the product [datasheet](https://www.verkada.com/docs/?product=alarms\&contentType=datasheet).

## Check network settings

Verkada Alarms devices are designed to be plug-and-play. However, if your environment includes a firewall with custom rules and policies, you may need to make some configuration changes to get your devices connected to the cloud. See [Alarms Network Settings](https://help.verkada.com/classic-alarms/getting-started/classic-alarms-network-settings) for more information.

## Alarms reports

Reports allow you to easily gather information about your Alarms site. You can create reports for a variety of events, including device actions and video verifications. For more information on creating reports, see [Alarms Reports](https://help.verkada.com/classic-alarms/monitoring-and-reports/alarms-reports).

## Alarms Monitoring Certificate

An Alarm Monitoring Certificate confirms that Verkada professionally monitors your alarm system and serves as proof for your insurance provider. See [Verkada Alarms Monitoring Certificate](https://app.gitbook.com/s/NU1He6Uj2tgInV2VdCLQ/alarm-specifications/verkada-alarms-monitoring-certificate) for more information. ​