A remote-controlled security apparatus for a door or window (opening) including a security bar, a motor-driven apparatus such as a linear actuator, and a remote control. The security bar has a first end hingeably connected to a first portion, such as a frame or jamb, of the door or window opening and a second end sized to extend substantially across at least a portion of a width or height of the door or window opening. The motor-driven apparatus includes a first end affixed and a second end coupled to the security bar. The remote control directs the motor-driven apparatus (e.g., actuator) to move the security bar between locked and unlocked positions. When locked, the security bar extends substantially across at least a portion of the width or the height of the opening. The security apparatus can securely lock a pair of sliding doors, or a hinged door, and control access remotely.