Smart Home security: 4 practical tips

Make sure there is a clear agreement between you and your installer. Ideally, you should lay out the terms and conditions in a signed contract which specifies how your personal data is handled. This builds a relationship of trust, while you remain in control of your own data.   

Of course, increased safety does not come free-of-charge. It is therefore important to take all necessary expenses into consideration at the beginning of the planning phase. The longer your hardware stays up to date, the less you will have to spend later.  If you’re afraid to go over budget, you might also split up the installation into two stages: first a basic version to cover the essentials, followed by an upgrade for enhanced security.

You decide who has access your home network – and who doesn’t. Make sure to use strong passwords for all systems and devices and change them on a regular basis (at least two times per year). Wireless networks should be protected by a WPA2 encryption method. Ask your installer to check whether that is all set up. In case there has been a sign of unauthorised access, contact your installer immediately. In addition, we recommend installing a security module such as the Gira S1. This device encrypts your personal data in compliance with the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) – so you can safely access your home automation system via the Gira Smart Home app from anywhere.

As technology keeps evolving, so do security standards. Whenever there’s a new update available for your Smart Home, you should activate it as soon as possible. Outdated software can quickly turn into an easy target for unauthorised parties. By always keeping your system up to date, you minimize the risk of any security breaches. Gira constantly revises and optimizes the software of existing devices and systems to provide the highest level of safety. You can always contact your installer for more information about any pending updates in the near future.