How to Keep Your Smart Devices Secure at Home

Smart devices have revolutionised the way we interact with our homes. From controlling the thermostat with a voice command to setting up security cameras that alert you in real time, the convenience is undeniable.

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However, with this increased convenience comes a potential risk: the security of your personal data. In 2025, securing your smart home is just as crucial as ensuring the safety of your physical home.

But don’t worry keeping your devices secure doesn’t need to be complicated. With a few simple steps, you can significantly reduce your risks while enjoying the benefits of your smart home. Let’s walk through some key steps to ensure your devices remain as safe as your home should be.

1. Change Default Passwords Immediately

When you first unbox a smart device be it a smart thermostat, lightbulb, or security camera one of the most important first steps is to change the default password. It’s tempting to overlook this, especially when the manufacturer provides a convenient ‘out of the box’ password. Unfortunately, this is often a security vulnerability.

Default passwords are widely available online, making it easy for hackers to gain access to your devices. Create a unique, strong password for each device. Use a combination of numbers, special characters, and both uppercase and lowercase letters to make it hard to crack. While it’s tempting to use one password for all devices, this can be risky.

If a hacker breaches one device, they could potentially access all your connected smart devices.

2. Enable Two Factor Authentication (2FA)

Many smart device manufacturers now offer two factor authentication (2FA) for added security. 2FA requires you to provide a second piece of information, such as a code sent to your phone, in addition to your regular password. This significantly reduces the likelihood that someone can hack into your devices, even if they manage to obtain your password.

While it may seem like an extra step, enabling 2FA is a small effort for an extra layer of security. Make sure to enable it on any device or app that supports it, especially for those that manage sensitive data like security cameras, door locks, or home assistants.

3. Keep Software and Firmware Up to Date

Manufacturers release software updates regularly to patch vulnerabilities in smart devices. Outdated software is one of the most common ways hackers gain access to smart home systems. These updates often contain important security patches that prevent cybercriminals from exploiting known vulnerabilities.

Most smart devices allow you to enable automatic updates, ensuring you don’t have to remember to check for them. However, if your devices don’t offer that option, it’s wise to set a reminder to check for updates periodically. This applies to everything from your smart fridge to your doorbell camera.

4. Set Up a Separate Wi-Fi Network for Smart Devices

Smart devices are constantly connected to the internet, making them prime targets for hackers. If you have multiple smart devices like a smart TV, refrigerator, and thermostat all connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your personal devices (laptop, phone, etc.), this could be a security risk.

Setting up a separate Wi-Fi network for your smart home devices ensures that even if one of your smart devices is compromised, the hacker doesn’t automatically have access to your personal devices. Most modern routers allow you to set up a “guest network,” which can be dedicated solely to your smart gadgets. This way, you can isolate your smart devices and protect your personal data.

5. Use a Smart Home Hub with Built in Security Features

If you have several smart devices, managing them through a hub like Google Home, Amazon Echo, or Apple HomeKit can offer an added layer of security. These hubs often come with built in security features, such as encrypted communications and secure cloud storage.

When choosing a hub, make sure to opt for one with strong security practices. Look for features like data encryption, secure connections, and two factor authentication. Additionally, it’s essential to stay informed about any security issues related to the hub you choose.

For example, if a vulnerability is discovered in one of your smart hubs, it’s crucial to update the firmware as soon as possible to prevent any risks.

6. Regularly Review Permissions and Data Sharing Settings

Many smart devices collect data to improve their services whether it’s collecting voice commands from your smart assistant or tracking your activity with a fitness tracker. While some of this data can be useful, you may not want to share everything with the manufacturer or third parties.

Take the time to regularly review the permissions and data sharing settings for each device. Limit access to only essential data, and disable features that you don’t need. You can also ensure that the device only shares information with trusted services and apps. If you’re unsure about how to manage these settings, check the user manual or device settings for guidance.

7. Use Secure, Trusted Third Party Apps and Devices

Smart homes rely on interconnected devices, and there are plenty of third party apps and smart devices available. While many are perfectly safe to use, others might not have the same security standards as leading brands.

To ensure that your smart devices remain secure, always use trusted, well reviewed apps and devices. Stick to products from reputable brands, and avoid unknown or unverified third party manufacturers.

When shopping for new smart devices, it’s always a good idea to research the brand’s security record. Do they have a history of addressing vulnerabilities? Do they offer regular updates? Checking out customer reviews and independent security assessments can help you make a more informed decision.

8. Secure Your Smart Assistants

Voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri are among the most common smart home devices. While these assistants are incredibly convenient, they can also present security risks if not properly secured.

Ensure that you set up a secure voice profile for your assistant, and review any permissions, such as whether it can access sensitive information or make purchases.

Another important step is to change the wake word or password for your smart assistant if it’s capable of doing so.

While it’s rare, some hackers have been known to trick voice assistants into performing unwanted actions, so taking these precautions adds an extra layer of security.

9. Monitor Device Activity and Set Alerts

A good security measure is to regularly monitor the activity of your smart devices. Many devices offer activity logs or allow you to set up notifications for certain events, like when someone enters your home or adjusts the thermostat. Use these alerts to keep an eye on what’s happening in your home, even when you’re not there.

Some security cameras and home hubs also allow you to set up motion detection alerts, which can notify you if someone is tampering with your devices. If something doesn’t seem right, you can act quickly and investigate further.

10. Educate Your Household

Finally, security isn’t just about the technology you use it’s about how you and your family engage with it. Educate everyone in your household about the importance of security, and set ground rules for managing smart devices.

For example, make sure everyone knows how to set strong passwords, recognise phishing attempts, and avoid sharing sensitive information.

Final Thoughts

Keeping your smart home secure doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task. By taking simple yet effective steps like changing passwords, using two factor authentication, keeping devices updated, and managing data privacy, you can enjoy the full benefits of your smart home while protecting your personal information.

Smart homes offer incredible convenience, but only if they’re properly secured. By investing time and effort into securing your devices, you’re ensuring that your home remains safe, both online and offline. So, take these practical steps to heart, and your smart home will be a secure, smart place to live.

— Elizabeth Mooreland, Smart Home & Appliances | The Tech Advisor