Last updated on Jul 10, 2024

You're setting up your smart home. How can you safeguard it without sacrificing convenience?

As the allure of smart homes continues to grow, so does the importance of keeping them secure. You might be excited to dive into the world of convenience that smart devices offer, but remember that each device connected to your network could be a potential entry point for cyber threats. Protecting your smart home isn't just about safeguarding your digital privacy—it's about ensuring the physical security of your living space. By taking proactive steps to secure your devices and network, you can enjoy the benefits of a connected home without leaving yourself vulnerable to the risks.

1 Secure Wi-Fi

Your smart home's first line of defense is a secure Wi-Fi network. Ensure your router's firmware is up to date and use a strong, unique password for your Wi-Fi. Consider setting up a separate network exclusively for your smart devices. This way, if a device is compromised, the threat is contained and doesn't spread to devices containing sensitive information, like your laptop or smartphone. Enable Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2) or Wi-Fi Protected Access 3 (WPA3) encryption to add another layer of security.

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Satyajit Sinha ✔

Director Sales/BD @ Enorme Global Electronics Pvt. Ltd.| Consumer Electronics+Home Appliances| Africa+Middle East+India Expertise
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1.Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA). Where possible, enable 2FA for an extra layer of security. 2.Use Strong, Unique Passwords. Ensure each device has a strong, unique password. 3.Secure Your Wi-Fi Network. Enable WPA3 encryption, the latest and most secure Wi-Fi encryption standard. Use a strong, unique password for your Wi-Fi network. 4.Keep Firmware and Software Updated. Regularly update your smart devices to latest firmware and software versions. 5.Set Up Firewalls and VPNs. Use a firewall to protect your network from unauthorized access. Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to encrypt your internet traffic. 6.Disable Unused Features. Turn off features you don’t use. 7.Be Cautious with Third-Party Apps. Only use official apps.

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Christopher Kellett

Sales Consultant @ Shanix | 13+ years industry experience
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Understand security and convenience are two opposite ends of a sliding scale. The more secure the less convenient and vice versa. Using secure practices along the way will maximize your in home networks security. 1. Use strong passwords on any devices connected to smart home(and in general). Change passwords every six months and after major data breaches. (not convenient) 2. Change your routers login credentials. NOT the wifi password but the actual credentials to log into the device. This info is on the back of the router usually. 3. Keep smart home connected devices up to date on firmware. Out of date devices such as cameras and other IOT devices can became easily hackable once out of date of their firmware.

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2 Strong Passwords

Each smart device and app should have a unique, complex password. Avoid common phrases and include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Password managers can help you keep track of these credentials securely. Additionally, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible. This requires a second form of verification, such as a text message or an email, to access your accounts, providing an extra layer of security against unauthorized access.

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3 Regular Updates

Keeping your devices updated is crucial for security. Manufacturers often release updates that patch vulnerabilities. Automate firmware updates if the option is available, or set a regular schedule to check for updates manually. Not only do updates address security flaws, but they can also improve device performance and add new features, maintaining the convenience of your smart home.

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4 Network Monitoring

Monitoring your network can alert you to any unusual activity that could indicate a security breach. Use your router's built-in tools to check which devices are connected and monitor bandwidth usage. If you notice unfamiliar devices or spikes in activity, investigate promptly. This vigilance helps prevent cybercriminals from gaining a foothold in your smart home ecosystem.

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Vivek Srivastava

Strategy-Supply Chain-Operation| Transformation & Excellence| Digital-Analytics-AI ML| Business Architecture| Sustainability-Cost-Efficiency| Value Chain-Supplier-Customer-Channel-Product| IIT, SPJain, INSEAD
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Key Practices: Regular Device Checks: Frequently review connected devices using your router's tools to ensure only authorized devices are on your network. Bandwidth Monitoring: Keep an eye on bandwidth usage to detect any unusual spikes that might indicate malicious activity. Security Alerts: Set up alerts for any new device connections or significant changes in network traffic. Firmware Updates: Ensure your router’s firmware is up-to-date to protect against known vulnerabilities. Strong Authentication: Use strong passwords and enable multi-factor authentication for accessing network settings. Segmentation: Segment your network to isolate critical devices and limit potential damage from breaches.

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5 Smart Habits

Develop smart habits to enhance your smart home's security without compromising convenience. For instance, regularly review device permissions and disable any features or permissions that are not necessary. Be cautious with guest access; limit it and monitor it closely. Educate everyone in your home about phishing and other common cyber threats. A little knowledge can go a long way in preventing security mishaps.

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6 Voice Control

Voice assistants add convenience but can also pose security risks if not managed properly. Activate voice recognition features so that only recognized voices can control your devices. Additionally, mute the assistant when not in use and review the voice command history periodically to check for any unauthorized commands. By doing so, you maintain the convenience of voice control while protecting your smart home from unintended actions.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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You're setting up your smart home. How can you safeguard it without sacrificing convenience?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Secure Wi-Fi

2 Strong Passwords

3 Regular Updates

4 Network Monitoring

5 Smart Habits

6 Voice Control

7 Here’s what else to consider

Consumer Electronics

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You're setting up your smart home. How can you safeguard it without sacrificing convenience?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Secure Wi-Fi

2 Strong Passwords

3 Regular Updates

4 Network Monitoring

5 Smart Habits

6 Voice Control

7 Here’s what else to consider

Consumer Electronics

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