As smart home technology continues to grow and evolve, it's becoming more accessible and widely used. However, homeowners still make several common mistakes when setting up their smart homes. That’s why we'll take a look at five of these mistakes and offer tips on how to avoid them!
Mistake #1: Using common, default usernames and passwords
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One of the most basic security measures you can take with your smart home is to change the default usernames and passwords for your devices. Many smart devices come with pre-set usernames and passwords that are easy to guess or widely known. This can make your devices vulnerable to hacking and other security breaches. To avoid this mistake, take the time to create unique, strong passwords for each device.
Mistake #2: Buying incompatible devices
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Another mistake many homeowners make is purchasing devices incompatible with their existing smart home setup. This can result in frustration, wasted money, and a less effective smart home experience. Before purchasing any new devices, take the time to research compatibility and make sure that the devices will work with your existing setup. This will save you time and money in the long run and ensure that your devices work seamlessly together.
However, with the introduction of the Matter standard, this issue is expected to be resolved. Matter is a new smart home connectivity standard that aims to create a unified smart home ecosystem, making it easier for devices from different brands to work together seamlessly. As a result, it's important to consider Matter compatibility when purchasing new devices.
Mistake #3: Not updating your apps
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Smart home apps must be updated regularly to ensure they are secure and functioning properly. Failing to update your apps can leave your devices open to attacks or prevent them from working correctly. Check for updates frequently and install them as soon as possible.
Mistake #4: Not considering your WiFi performance
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Your smart home relies on a strong and stable WiFi connection. If your Internet connection is slow or unreliable, your devices may not work properly or disconnect frequently. Before purchasing new smart home devices, ensure your WiFi network is up to the task. Consider upgrading your router or Internet plan if necessary.
It’s a must to choose the right plan for your smart home. Determine your needs and compare plans to find the best plan for your household. You can also find the best Internet plan for your home by checking out PLDT Home’s plan recommender! This way, you’ll easily know the PLDT Home Fiber Plus plan that’s perfect for you and your smart home.
Mistake #5: Failing to do research
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Finally, one of the biggest mistakes you can make is failing to research before making smart home purchases. There are many different devices and brands on the market, and it's important to read reviews, compare features, and ask for recommendations before making any decisions. By researching, you can avoid compatibility issues, security breaches, and other problems arising from choosing the wrong devices.
Setting up a smart home can be an exciting and convenient way to streamline your daily routines. However, it's important to avoid common mistakes that can leave your devices vulnerable to attacks or prevent them from working correctly. By taking the time to research and prepare, you can set up a smart home that is safe, effective, and enjoyable to use!