Today’s ever changing technological advancements are leading to many everyday things around us becoming electronically automated, right before our eyes. Some people say automation can cause unemployment along with other drawbacks but one of the major advantages is making life easier for humans by eliminating mundane and sometimes, time consuming tasks. Chores such as vacuuming the floor, feeding the dog and even checking to see who’s at the door can now be controlled with the touch of a button or simple voice command through a collection of smart home gadgets. A smart home system can consist of lighting, HVAC, security and much more, all managed via smart assistants and mobile devices.
A smart assistant is a software application installed on a smartphone or tablet that connects to various smart devices throughout your home. Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Home Kit are examples of these assistants, their software application is based on artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms.
Smart home likewise a wide range of devices including plugs, cameras, door locks, home theatre, etc. The combination of these products or devices that you control from your computer or smartphone via voice commands or text codes is what makes a smart home system work.
How to get started with a smart home system?
There are three things you need to consider before getting started with a smart home system – i.e. time, budget, and enthusiasm. You can start your smart device journey small by buying single items like a smart light bulb or Ring doorbell and control them with the compatible assistant app but if you want to jump right into having a fully functioning smart home system, then you would need to buy multiple devices – such as smart bulbs, thermostats, door locks, speakers, home theatre, etc. When you have all these devices connected to the smart app, i.e Google Assistant, you will be able to control them via your smartphone from remote places.
In addition, before installing any device like a smart bulb, you need to check whether or they are compatible with smart systems like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Home Kit, etc. Certainly, it would not be a good choice to install smart bulbs that show compatibility with Good Assistant but not with Apple Home Kit – in the case you are using iPhone or iPad as your main smart assistant.
Smart Home Security
Using the smart app, you can use exclusive voice commands to control the products. For example, you can say “Alexa,” turn off the bulb” or anything like this. If you are using Google Assistant, you would say something like “Hey Google, turn on the light.”
One of the biggest disadvantages of a smart home system is that it can easily be penetrated or cracked by hackers. Not only can they steal your private data but it can also make your home vulnerable to theft. If someone knows your smart assistant login details, they can get into the house easily by controlling the door locks via the app. When it comes to the security of your smart home system, you need to make sure your data is not accessed by others. Your access codes or passwords must be strong so that no one can predict or crack them. Don’t use easily obtainable info such as birthdays or your house’s address, also make sure to change the code or password often.
Call Classic Handyman @ 847-651-5847 for more tips and help with smart devices in your home!
