The Internet of Things, often shortened to IoT, refers to all the smart devices you find in homes today. Those devices could include doorbells, speakers, kitchen appliances, and even smart pet technology. The best connected home devices can make your home more convenient, safe, and fun. However, it can be a challenge to secure IoT in your home. While you take advantage of the conveniences of smart devices, it’s important to be aware of their security risks. In this article, we’ll show you several ways to tighten up the security on your IoT devices. As a bonus, following these steps can also improve the overall security of your home network.

Before we get into how to secure IoT, let’s take a quick look at why you should. There are two big problems with securing IoT. One is that you can’t install security software directly on them. That means these devices can’t be protected the same way as computers, phones, and tablets. The second, related problem is that most IoT devices come with minimal built-in security, making them an easy target for hackers.

How to keep your smart home secure

So what’s a modern, connected person to do? Fortunately, there are solutions for securing IoT devices. The first step is to try to choose products from reputable brands. While they might cost more up-front, well-known and respected brands can provide better support and built-in security features.

You’ll also want to consider your needs before you buy the next smart thing. Sure, all these smart devices can be fun. But consider the pros and cons of adding another connected device to your home and keeping it secure.

Secure IoT devices with these 5 actions

The top five actions to secure your connected devices are similar as for keeping your home network secure.

1. 1. Use security software. Invest in network-wide security software that can detect and block a variety of threats. And make sure it includes a firewall to secure IoT against hackers. This can be something you install on your router, or a program you can download to a computer and then apply across devices. Security software like CenturyLink Security by McAfee®is a comprehensive option that helps you safely connect to the internet. Bonus it’s available free to all active CenturyLink internet subscribers!
   2. Set up a separate network. To further protect your content-rich devices, set up a second network that is exclusively for your smart home devices. With a second network, you can secure IoT by making sure those devices are only connected during certain times, and that there are more limited permissions to that network.
   3. Change the default username & password for every device. Default usernames and passwords for IoT devices are often available on the dark web, allowing cybercriminals to sign in to your devices. So a simple way to prevent this is by changing those defaults right away when you get a new one. The details of how to do this will vary by device, but most IoT devices have a companion app or online account.
   4. Create unique and strong passwords. While you’re changing those defaults, and for any existing devices, be sure to create unique and strong passwords and change them regularly. Don’t forget to do this for your WiFi network too.
   5. Use two-factor authentication. More and more accounts and devices offer two-factor authentication, which adds another layer of security when signing in. Use it whenever possible.

Security and beyond

By taking these precautions with your smart home devices and your home network, you’re setting yourself up for better security on your IoT network and smart home devices. While you improve your network security, also consider privacy. You can customize privacy settings on your smart speaker and many other devices. With security and privacy improved, you can rest at ease in your modern, and smart, home.