How to Secure Your Smart Home: Passwords, Updates and Privacy
Lock down your smart home: unique passwords, two-factor authentication, updated router and devices, camera privacy settings, and a clear recovery plan.
Smart Home Buying Guides
Buying guides for starting a smart home, budgets, apartments, hub-free setups, lighting and security.
Building a Smart Home on a Budget, in Stages
Build a smart home in stages. Start with a foundation of smart plugs and a controller, then add lights, sensors, and security as your budget allows.
Planning Smart Lighting Room by Room
Plan your smart lighting room by room: bulbs vs switches, fixture counts, wake lighting, task lighting, scenes, motion sensors, and outdoor tips.
DIY Home Security: Choosing Cameras, Doorbells and Locks That Work Together
Build a cohesive DIY home security system by choosing compatible cameras, doorbells, locks, and sensors. This guide covers planning, a checklist, and platform tips.
Smart Home Without a Hub: What Works and the Trade-Offs
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Matter-over-Wi-Fi devices can work without a hub. Learn the trade-offs, including cloud reliance, battery life, router load, and when a hub is worth adding.
Smart Home for Renters: No-Wiring, No-Drill Devices
A practical guide to no-wiring and no-drill smart home devices for renters, covering plugs, bulbs, sensors, cameras, locks, and mounts that protect your deposit.
Smart Home for Beginners: Where to Start
A plain-English guide for beginners on where to start with a smart home, from choosing a platform to your first automations and security basics.
Smart Home Buying Guides: Device Guide
If you are new to smart home technology, start with the beginner smart home guide to understand the basics. This category also includes advice for renters and those who prefer a hub-free setup.
For specific areas, explore guides on DIY home security and smart lighting setup. Budget-conscious shoppers can find tips in the budget-friendly section.