What to Look for When Buying Smart Home Devices

What to look for when choosing specific types of Smart Home products depends a lot on the product category. For example, smart lighting has other things to consider than smart kitchen appliances. “For people who aren't tech-savvy, the idea of ​​a smart home can be intimidating,” said JC Murphy, president of Savant Systems, an independent Miami-based smart home integration company." For that reason, something as simple as a smart light bulb is a great starting point. A standard A19 smart bulb can be screwed in and then easily set up in the manufacturer's app to control color and on/off. A smart plug is another simple product. It plugs into a standard wall outlet and then any device connected to it can be easily turned on and off via an app, whether at home or on the road. Here are seven things to consider that all smart devices have in common:

1. What it does: Find out what a specific smart device does and how it works
2. How it can improve your life: Don't upgrade the existing equipment in your home unless you first determine that it is beneficial to replace it with a smart device. Ask yourself if it will save you money over time or make your life easier in some way.
3. Compatibility with existing technology: Make sure the smart devices you buy are compatible with your existing mobile appliances, computers and other smart equipment you have already purchased (such as a smart speaker).
4. Security Issues: Any smart device that connects to the internet can pose a security risk. Take the necessary steps to prevent potential hackers from breaking into your home network (such as setting strong passwords) and make sure that the manufacturer of the smart devices you install has its own security measures in place. Also keep your equipment's firmware and mobile app up to date.
5. Upgrade and expandability: Choose smart equipment that can be upgraded or expanded so you don't have to replace it quickly. The best smart devices should serve you well for at least five years (possibly much longer).
6. Brand Name Reputation: In every product category of smart devices, there are companies with well-known and respected offering well-designed and safe products. Support smart device manufacturers who take the security and privacy of their customers seriously and protect your data.