So, your smart home is up and running – you’ve got top-notch smart lights on a schedule and can open your garage door with a tap on your phone. But is your smart home protected from unwelcome visitors
Securing a smart home involves more than just locking the front door. From securing your security camera recordings to preventing remote access to your smart speakers, it’s crucial to protect your network from all angles.
Don’t worry – with a few simple precautions, you can minimize the risk of hacking or data exposure. Here’s how to secure your smart home:
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Protect Your Wi-Fi
Your Wi-Fi is the gateway to all your smart home gadgets. Make sure your Wi-Fi password isn’t the default one and is difficult for others to guess. Change it regularly and ensure your router and other internet devices are updated with the latest firmware and software. This usually happens automatically, but it’s good to double-check to protect against the latest security vulnerabilities.
Set Up a Guest Network
If you have frequent visitors, set up a guest network. This allows your guests to get online without accessing your smart home devices. While your friends and family are unlikely to hack your devices, it’s good security practice to keep your main network separate. You can find the guest network option in your router settings or app.
Update Your Software
Keep all your devices and software updated. Smart home gadget makers regularly issue updates to fix security holes. This includes not just your smart home devices but also your phones, laptops, and other connected devices. Most updates happen automatically, but check your devices to ensure they’re up to date.
Configure Two-Factor Authentication
Many smart home devices can be accessed online, making them vulnerable if your login details are compromised. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts to add an extra layer of security. This requires an additional code, often sent to your phone, to log in. Check the settings for your devices and accounts to enable 2FA.
Delete Your Information
Regularly deleting data stored in the cloud can reduce the risk if your accounts are compromised. For example, review and delete voice recordings from your Amazon Echo through your Amazon account’s privacy settings. Set your devices to automatically wipe data after a certain period.
Choose Trusted Brands
Stick to well-known and trusted brands for your smart home devices. Trusted manufacturers are more likely to have robust security practices. Research the security track record of the gadgets you’re considering. If a brand seems shady or their products are unusually cheap, it’s best to avoid them.
These tips might seem overwhelming, but once you get used to them, securing your smart home will become second nature. Don’t rush when adding new devices – treat them with the same care as your existing gadgets. The larger your smart home network, the more potential vulnerabilities, but don’t let that stop you from expanding your smart home.