A security network for use in a building with an opening to be monitored for possible intrusion. The network includes an intrusion sensor monitoring the opening; an RFID transponder associated with the sensor; an RFID reader in wireless communication with the transponder; and a portable telephone handset having first keys activating conventional telephone capability and second keys activating interaction with the other security network components. The handset wirelessly communicates with the reader. The reader may take the form of a security cradle for the handset. Alternatively, the reader may take the form of a telephone console. The console has keys enabling a user to dial remote telephone numbers; circuitry adapted to receive wireless communications from the transponder; circuitry in wireless communication with the handset; circuitry in communication with an external network; and a processor executing program code enabling the handset to communicate with the external network via the telephone console.