When it comes to the Internet of Things (IoT), there’s little doubt that the tremendous potential and benefits will change the way we look at communication, business, and security. For many, the use of IoT for business security is an obvious one, but home security is a relatively new application that offers fantastic promise. The ability to deliver real-time insight, analytics, and expand business intelligence means that IoT offers a great deal when it comes to all types of connected home services.

Even the simplest home products are being connected to the Internet, such as the smart light bulb and door lock, thermostat, and home security system, all of which can be controlled from anywhere an Internet connection exists.

When it comes to home security, IoT technology not only protects the home from physical intrusion, but it also protects against cyber attacks. Given how more things in the connected home are being linked together for greater energy conservation, controlling of light, temperature, and devices that can report if they are beginning to malfunction, the area of home security has become a focal point for today’s consumer.

Did you know that a cyber attack that penetrates through security codes can tell the attacker a significant amount of information about a person’s habits, such as whether someone is home, as well as provide the times you lock or unlock your front door? While it may seem innocuous that an intruder may know when a bulb is burning out, this information can indicate your presence in the home, which may lead to an intrusion.

Alternatively, protecting all Internet-accessible items can be done through encryption codes that make hacking nearly impossible.

Remote viewing – As long as you have Internet access, you can watch live feeds from your home anytime and from anywhere in the world. This lets you keep an eye out for any changes in the home, which may indicate an intruder is present.

Remote access – Compared to timers, which are very predictable, randomly turning on lights at different times only provides the illusion that someone is inside the residence. However, new connected home systems let users remotely check motion sensors, doors and windows, control lights and appliances, and view a history of home activities.

Real-time alerts – Stay in the know wherever you go and receive emails, text messages, or video alerts of important events in real time, such as when a child is arriving home from school or recent system and sensor activity. You can also alert the police or a security company through your mobile device once you become aware of a security situation at your home.

As technology advances, so does the IoT. It brings together different connected and smart devices in the home from security cameras, central air systems, and even lighting systems to help guard against intruders and provide greater overall protection. While the IoT has shown some vulnerability, when used correctly, the benefits can provide far more peace of mind along with a faster reaction time should an intrusion occur.

Thomas McKay holds more than twenty years of leadership, management, business, and marketing experience in the medical device, software, and high-tech industries. In his current role as Director of Marketing and Communications for Numerex, McKay leads a number of initiatives.