Latest Smart Home Security How-To Stories
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How-To
How to spot and stop everyday cyberattacks
It never stops. Attackers continue to exploit new vulnerabilities and tricks to hack accounts or infiltrate devices. To stay protected, you should be aware of the latest hacks.
Updated
7 awesome Philips Hue smart light features you’re not using
If you’re only using the Philips Hue app to turn your Hue lights on and off, you’re not doing it right. Here are 7 essential Hue features that are easy to miss.
How-To
How to use your security camera's 2-way audio (without being weird about it)
Being able to speak to the people on the other end of those connections is indispensable to my home security.
How-To
I was robbed. Then I turned my home into a smart security fortress for $400
A brazen theft was the wake-up call. I turned my house into a fortress with security cameras, sensors, and even protection from fire and water damage.
How-To
Ring's AI-powered pet finder is coming—and you're already signed up
Ring’s new AI-enabled Search Party feature enlists the help of nearby Ring cameras—including yours, unless you say otherwise—to spot missing pets.
How-To
Ring lets police ask for security videos. Here’s how to opt out
A feature in Ring’s Neighbors app allows law enforcement to request footage from your Ring cameras. You don’t have to play ball.
Updated
I adore this $13 ethernet switch so much, I bought 3 of them
My smart home and streaming setup both depend on ethernet, and these compact ethernet switches ensure I have plenty of ports.
Tip
I put these $6 battery-operated motion lights in ALL my closets
You don't need a lot of money to banish darkness from the deepest corners of your home. These LED lights make all the difference.
How-To
How to install a smart light switch or dimmer
High voltage is no joke, but you don’t need special electrical knowhow or skills to safely replace your light switch or dimmer with a smart model for hands-free control.
How-To
Is someone spying on your Wi-Fi? How to sniff out network snoops easily
Suspiciously slow Internet or unknown devices connecting without permission? How to recognize uninvited guests on your home network
Tip
I use this $18 box to safely plug in all my outdoor smart devices
I use power strips and multi-plug extension cords to power my outdoor smart lights, water feature pumps, barbecue, and more. This box keeps everything hidden and dry.
Tip
This dual-power LED flashlight makes my Maglite feel like a relic
The Infinity X1 can run on either rechargeable or disposable batteries, it can charge your phone, and it will make a wicked club during the zombie apocalypse.
Updated
How to pick the right in-wall smart dimmers and switches
Lighting control is a smart home essential. We'll help you sort through your options to find the best solution, whether that be Wi-Fi, Matter, Zigbee, or Z-Wave.
Updated
Optimize your home's lighting design using color temperature
Once you understand what color temperature is and why it matters, you can choose the right types of light bulbs to improve the quality of your life at home.
How-To
7 Ring security cam video settings that bolster your home's security
Clear footage is essential for monitoring your home effectively. Enable these features to capture every detail.
How-To
Want to safely use Windows 10 after Microsoft ends support? Meet 0Patch
With 0Patch, you can provide Windows 10 with updates beyond October 2025. We show you how it works.
How-To
Security cam setup: Where you should (and shouldn’t) install one
Installing security cameras is one of the best ways to protect your home. But some locations are better than others, and there are privacy issues to consider too.
Tip
6 security cam mistakes that will leave you open to hackers
Security cameras let you monitor your home. But if you don’t lock them down, criminals can monitor you, instead. Here's how to protect your privacy.
How-To