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Smarthome technology has come a long way.
Smarthomes don’t have to be expensive, and they aren’t always listening to you, for example.
But they don’thaveto be expensive.
It’s easy to start small and then build out piece by piece from there.
One great way to do that is to pick upinexpensive smart bulbsand see what you think.
You could then consider adding a sensor or two.
The best thing to do is to watch for deals.
Voice assistants like the Echo and Google Homego on sale frequently.
But it isn’t true at all, at least not in the way people fear.
Voice Assistant devices, likeAlexaandGoogle Home, do always listen.
This was, of course, unintentional, and Google was quick to remedy the situation.
But the point stands that near-constant recording is noticeable, even to someone who isn’t a security researcher.
Both Amazon and Google also let you view (and delete) every voice command you’ve ever given.
Here’s how to view your history for theAmazon Echoand theGoogle Home.
But the weak point of your home probably isn’t your smart hub or smart outlet.
Dariusz Jarzabek/Shutterstock
The weak point is probably your Wi-Fi Router.
The key to any secure connected home is asecure Wi-Fi web connection.
People who want to do you harm or steal your stuff are likely to choose the most accessible path.
Why hack asmart lock, after all, when it’s possible for you to break a window?
But Smarthomes are easier than ever to implement.
you’re free to get by with installing somePhillips Hue light bulbsand a voice assistant of your choice.
If you’ve ever changed a lock, installing a smart lock is an almost identical process.
Even if you aren’t comfortable with wiring a switch, asmart plugis dead simple to install.
You plug it in and then plug your rig into the smart outlet.
This is especially true if you get one with a display, like theGoogle Home Hub.
The key is keeping a smarthome simple is to start small and build up.
Yes, as you add more devices and start thinking about routines andautomation, things do get more complicated.
