Digital Security & Tech Hub

From security software to efficiency apps, there are many new technologies and devices to help run your home smoothly.

Some allow you to be more hands-on. Devices such as programmable thermostats, for example, allow you to change the temperature in your home throughout the day according to a schedule you set up.

Others are even smarter. They can actually learn your behaviors and act on them automatically. A smart thermostat—once it’s up to speed on your heating and cooling habits—will set a climate-control schedule without needing to be programmed by you.

Given the array of options available, buying smart devices and choosing a smart home internet plan can also be confusing. But upgrading your home doesn’t have to be rocket science if you know what you’re looking to achieve and the kind of device you need.

Decide what type of experience you want

Before starting your research, think about what you want from your smart home device. For example:

• Home management, like turning your lights on and off at pre-arranged times, or automatically locking your doors and setting your alarms each night.
• Added convenience, like a speaker that reads you the forecast while you’re cooking breakfast, or puts on a playlist before your dinner party starts. information.
• Home security, such as a device that alerts you to movement when you’re away and provides a stream on your phone so you can see what’s happening in real time.

Decide what type of tech you want

Generally speaking, there are two kinds of smart home options to choose from: assistants and devices.

Assistants are connected to the internet and perform searches on everything from the weather to how long it takes to roast a chicken; they can also communicate with other devices. The most widely used are from Apple, Amazon, and Google.

Devices help with everything from setting your morning alarm to starting your shower at the right temperature. Because their tasks are so varied, you’ll want to have a very clear idea of what you’re looking for before going shopping.

When choosing an assistant, here are some things to consider:

• Budget—since these devices can be pricey, know how much you are willing to spend
• The other devices you may have—ask yourself what would work best with what’s already in your home.

If it’s a device you’re looking for, consider these:

• For an improved routine, you may want smart coffee makers, smart alarm clocks, and smart light bulbs.
• For an efficient home, look for smart outlets, smart thermostats, and robotic vacuums.
• For safety and protection, invest in smart locks, smart blinds, and smart security cameras, which are connected to voice control.

Focus on your device’s security

Once you’ve got your device up and running, make sure you know—and follow—a few ground rules to keep your smart home network secure:

• Use only protected devices and appliances.
• Keep your device’s software up to date.
• Never access your smart home network from public or unsecured Wi-Fi.
• Keep your smartphone secure and all your passwords protected.

While smart home technology is exciting, the number of devices in the marketplace can be overwhelming. Figuring out which one is right for you, your home, and your existing devices is no small task.

By being careful with and conscious of the devices that you bring into your home, you can ensure a safe and connected world—and an upgrade for what you call home.

If you're still hesitant to begin adding smart devices to your home, Verizon offers a detailed "smart home for beginners" guide to teach you even more about home automation.