The pros and cons of smart homes

How safe is home automation?

Smart homes are often referred to as being safer than traditional homes. But the reality is that home automation can easily give hackers access to information about your space. Researchers at Saarland University found that these systems allow criminals to gain insight into the behavioral patterns of homeowners. The researchers were able to gain knowledge about the ventilation and heating of the homes as well as, more worryingly, the times when the homeowners were absent. The conclusion of the research was that more work needs to be done to make home automation more secure.

There are a number of measures homeowners can take to ensure their home automation system is safe. These include using secure internet access, changing passwords often, and updating applications.

How can home automation make your home safer?           

Home automation can however also make your home safer by providing you with the ability to view your home at all times. You can have cameras, motions detectors, and locks installed which will allow you to control the doors of your home from wherever you might be. Some examples of when this is especially useful are being able to let in a contractor who you’re expecting or “answering” the door and telling the person outside that you’re not interested in what they’re offering. This sends a strong message that someone is home, even when you’re at your office many miles away.

What are the other advantages and disadvantages of these systems?

Advantages

- Convenience. All of your products will be programmed to your needs.

- Customization. You can include as many or as few of these products as you choose.

- Security. As mentioned above, smart homes are well-known for their improved security.

- Ease. It’s quick and simple to install these systems.

- Environmentally friendly. Thermostats, air conditioning, and lighting can all be controlled for optimal energy efficiency.

Disadvantages

- Cost. Some smart products can be fairly expensive.

- Learning. There may be some learning curve for non-tech savvy people.

- Reliability. Smart homes are reliant on your internet connection.

If you're interested in home automation and smart homes, read about how you can integrate SMS with your project. The major advantage of SMS is that it can reach you anywhere in the world, even if your mobile data is switched off. Some of the most used and loved instances of using SMS in home automation include instructing your coffee pot or oven to switch on at certain times. That way you’ll be greeted when you arrive home with the scent of freshly brewed coffee or your dinner.