How Smart Is Your Home?
As we said at previous blog the “Internet of things” is the concept of basically connecting any device with an on and off switch to the Internet. What if all the devices in your life could connect to the internet? And what if those devices could all communicate, send you information, and take your commands?
This is not rare nowadays. There is a wide variety of smart home devices that go far beyond video surveillance and lighting. Most home automation products have an app that’s compatible with most smartphones, tablets or computers, to allow you to control things at home.
Smart devices offer convenience and safety, and can even help you save money on your energy bills. But the question is, are they secure?
You should make the assumption that anything that’s internet accessible is hackable. If it has a camera or a mic built in, it can be taken over. Amazon, Google, and Apple, for example, have all created apps and devices designed to provide users with a “smart home.” but they have also prompted security concerns. These products allow users to lock their doors, play a song on demand, remotely control thermostats, and more. Locks aren’t the only safety concern. Voice-command devices are “always listening;” a fact that could be easily exploited. There are enough of privacy issues with this type of technology.
In order to get the most out of that home-automation capability, you need some smart home technology to control.
Smart Home Devices:
1. Surveillance Cameras
Netgear’s Arlo Pro outdoor security camera system earned our Editors’ Choice for its superb video quality, ease of use, and myriad features including motion and sound detection, rechargeable batteries, geofencing, and its ability to work with other smart home devices.
2. Logitech Harmony Elite
Don’t like talking and prefer controlling things the old fashioned way: by pushing buttons? The Logitech Harmony Elite is the ultimate universal remote. The pricey unit connects with the included Harmony Home Hub to control other Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Z-Wave, or infrared devices in your house.