How to Secure Your Smart Home Devices in 2025

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Smart home technology is everywhere in 2025, from smart thermostats and cameras to app-controlled locks and lights. But with great convenience comes great security responsibility. Hackers are constantly probing for weak links in home networks. In August 2024, for example, thousands of consumers had their smart cameras, locks, and thermostats hijacked by attackers who exploited default passwords and settings.

The average U.S. household now runs around 17 connected devices – each one a potential entry point. How do you enjoy the perks of a connected home without inviting cyber intruders? In this guide, we’ll show you how to secure your smart home devices in 2025 with up-to-date best practices so you can protect your digital domain.

Key Takeaways

  • Smart devices are convenient but risky: Internet-connected gadgets (cameras, locks, thermostats, etc.) can be hacked if not properly secured, potentially letting intruders spy on your activities or even unlock your doors. Protecting these devices is about safeguarding your entire household’s privacy and safety.
  • Use strong, unique passwords (no defaults): Many IoT devices ship with default passwords that are widely known or easy to guess, which hackers abuse. Always change default credentials and use a long, unique passphrase for each device. A password manager can help you generate and track complex passwords.
  • Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA): If your smart device or its mobile app offers MFA, turn it on. Requiring a one-time code in addition to your password stops attackers from getting in even if they crack your password. According to Microsoft, adding MFA can block over 99% of automated account hacks – a simple step that hugely boosts security.
  • Secure your home Wi-Fi network: Your Wi-Fi is the gateway to all smart devices. Protect it with a strong Wi-Fi password and WPA3 encryption (or WPA2 at minimum). Create a separate “guest” network just for your IoT devices – this isolates them from your main devices (like laptops or phones) and limits damage if an IoT gadget is compromised. Also, keep your router’s firmware updated and disable any risky settings (like remote administration or universal plug-and-play) that you don’t need. (See Nexgyn’s guide to Securing Your Home Wi-Fi for a detailed walkthrough.)
  • Keep device software updated: Manufacturers regularly release firmware updates to patch security vulnerabilities. Always update your smart devices to the latest firmware/software – enable automatic updates if available. Updates fix known flaws and protect you from emerging threats. If a device stops receiving updates from the manufacturer, strongly consider replacing it with a newer model that has ongoing support. An outdated camera or smart plug with unpatched holes can become an open door for hackers.
  • Turn off unused features and services: Disable any smart device features you don’t actively use. Every extra capability – whether it’s remote access, voice control, a microphone, or geolocation – is another avenue an attacker could exploit. For example, if you never use voice commands on a smart TV or camera, turn that feature off. Likewise, disable remote access on devices like smart plugs or thermostats when you’re away on vacation. The fewer entry points you expose, the safer your devices will be. Also consider renaming your devices’ default names (avoid using identifiable labels like “Front Door Camera”) to not give away info to anyone scanning for targets. Regularly review app permissions and privacy settings on your smart home apps to ensure you’re only sharing what’s necessary.
  • Choose devices with security in mind: Not all smart gadgets are created equal. When buying new devices, do some research on the brand’s security track record and prefer products that follow strong security practices (like requiring unique passwords out of the box and offering encryption). In fact, governments are stepping in to help: the U.S. is rolling out a “U.S. Cyber Trust Mark” labeling program in 2024 to certify smart devices that meet baseline cybersecurity standards. Products with this label will adhere to requirements like having unique default passwords, data protections, and regular software updates. Looking for such security labels or certifications can help you pick safer smart home tech. Additionally, stick to reputable manufacturers that provide ongoing support and updates for their devices – it’s worth investing in a device that won’t be abandoned as soon as you plug it in.

Why Smart Home Security Matters in 2025

Smart home devices have exploded in popularity – they’re now in almost half of U.S. households and similarly common worldwide. This means cybercriminals have a growing pool of targets. Unlike traditional computers or phones, many IoT devices have limited built-in security and often fly under the radar when we think about “cybersecurity.” Hackers know this. They often look for the weakest, least-protected device on your network and use it as a foothold. For instance, a vulnerable smart light or video doorbell could be the entry point that lets an attacker infiltrate your entire home network.

The consequences of a smart home breach can be disturbingly personal. An intruder who hijacks your camera or baby monitor can literally peer into your home and life. There have been reports of strangers speaking through hacked nanny cams or smart speakers – a chilling invasion of privacy. Beyond spying, attackers might unlock smart doors or disable alarm systems, putting physical security at risk. They could also steal sensitive personal data by accessing other devices on the network. In one 2024 incident, weak credentials allowed hackers to control thousands of home devices remotely, demonstrating how real these threats are.

In short, securing smart home devices isn’t just about protecting gadgets – it’s about protecting your home and family. The good news is that with some prudent steps, you can dramatically reduce the risks. Below, we outline essential steps and best practices to fortify your smart home against cyber intruders.

5 Essential Steps to Secure Your Smart Home Devices

Taking a proactive approach to IoT security will give you peace of mind to enjoy your smart home. Here are five fundamental steps every homeowner should follow to lock down their smart devices:

1. Change Default Passwords & Use Strong Passphrases

Replace factory defaults immediately: The moment you set up a new smart device, change any default password it came with. Defaults are often public knowledge (e.g. printed in manuals or easily found online), making it trivial for attackers to access devices that still use them. Create a unique, strong passphrase for each device and account – ideally at least 12 characters mixing letters, numbers, and symbols (or use a random generated password for maximum strength). Avoid reusing passwords; a breach of one device shouldn’t compromise others.

Use a password manager: Given the number of devices and accounts in a smart home, remembering all those strong passwords is challenging. A reputable password manager can generate, store, and autofill complex passwords for you, so you don’t have to rely on weak or reused passwords. This way, each device gets a unique key that only you hold (and you only need to remember one master password for the manager). Never share your device passwords and consider changing them periodically for good measure. Taking these steps ensures that a hacker can’t simply stroll in through the “front door” of your smart device using an easy guess like “admin” or “123456”.

2. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Most smart home devices come with companion mobile apps or cloud accounts (for example, an app to view your security cameras or manage your smart thermostat). Always enable multi-factor authentication on those accounts whenever it’s offered. MFA usually means after entering your password, you must provide a second proof of identity – commonly a one-time code sent to your phone, or generated by an authenticator app. This extra step is well worth it: even if an attacker somehow cracks or steals your password, they still can’t get into your account without that code.

MFA dramatically improves security. In fact, Microsoft’s analysis shows that multifactor authentication can block over 99% of account compromise attempts. It’s like adding a deadbolt on top of a lock – making it exponentially harder for bad actors to break in. Whenever you set up a new smart device account, check the security settings for login verification options.

Set up two-factor authentication via SMS, email, or an authenticator app. For devices that allow biometric unlock (fingerprint or face ID) on their mobile app, use that as well – it counts as an extra factor tied to something you are. Cyber criminals “hate” MFA because it renders stolen passwords much less useful. By enabling it, you’re shutting the door on one of their favorite attack methods.

3. Secure Your Home Network (Wi-Fi Settings & Segmentation)

Your Wi-Fi router is the central hub through which all smart devices connect to the internet – securing it is paramount. Start with your Wi-Fi credentials: set a strong, unique password for your Wi-Fi network, and use the latest encryption protocol (WPA3 if your router supports it, or WPA2 otherwise). This prevents outsiders from easily guessing or cracking your Wi-Fi password to piggyback on your network.

It also encrypts the traffic so your neighbors can’t snoop on what your devices are doing. Avoid using obvious network names (SSIDs) that give away your identity or address; you can even disable broadcasting your SSID if you want to be less conspicuous. Isolate smart devices on a guest network: A highly recommended strategy is to create a separate Wi-Fi network just for your IoT devices. Many modern routers let you set up a guest network – use it for all your smart bulbs, cameras, appliances, etc.

Keep your primary network reserved for your personal computers, phones, and tablets. This way, if a hacker infiltrates one of your IoT gadgets, they can’t easily access your sensitive personal devices or data. Network segmentation limits the blast radius of a compromise. For even more isolation, some tech-savvy homeowners use VLANs or a dedicated IoT firewall device to strictly limit what their smart devices can communicate with.

Lock down router settings: Log in to your router’s admin interface and review its security settings. Change the router’s admin password (often a default like “admin/admin” – change it to a strong passphrase you won’t forget). Disable features that could be risky entry points, such as remote administration (if you don’t need to access your router from outside your home) and WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup), which is convenient but potentially exploitable.

Consider turning off UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) unless required, as it can inadvertently open ports to your network. Ensure the router’s firmware is up to date – router manufacturers also release updates for security bugs. Many newer routers can auto-update themselves; if yours has that option, enable it. A secure router is the foundation of a secure smart home, so don’t overlook it. (For more guidance, check out our internal primer on Securing Your Home Wi-Fi.)

4. Keep Firmware & Software Up to Date

Updating your devices regularly is one of the simplest yet most effective security measures. Smart bulbs, cameras, smart TVs – all run on software (firmware) that can have vulnerabilities. Manufacturers often release updates or patches to fix newly discovered security flaws. If you ignore these updates, your devices remain vulnerable to known exploits that hackers can easily weaponize. In 2025, cyber threats evolve quickly, so think of updates as your devices getting needed immunizations against the latest “germs.”

Enable auto-updates wherever possible: Many smart home apps or hubs will allow automatic firmware updates for connected devices. Turn this on so you don’t have to manually check. If auto-update isn’t available, set yourself a reminder to log into the device app or web interface every month or so to scan for updates. Apply patches promptly – don’t procrastinate, as attackers prey on unpatched devices.

Upgrade or replace obsolete devices: Importantly, if a product is no longer supported by the manufacturer with updates, it will grow increasingly insecure over time. For example, if you have an 5-year-old IP camera that hasn’t seen a firmware update in years, consider upgrading to a newer model that gets regular security patches. The same goes for your router – older routers may not receive WPA3 or critical patches.

Yes, replacing devices can be an expense, but it’s a worthwhile investment in security (and often you gain improved functionality too). As a rule of thumb, phase out any IoT devices that the vendor has abandoned. It’s better to retire a gadget on your terms than have a hacker turn it into a zombie on theirs.

5. Disable Unnecessary Features & Strengthen Privacy
Smart devices often come loaded with features – some of which you might never use. Each extra feature (especially those that connect outside your home) can introduce risk, so it pays to trim down your smart devices to only the functionality you need. For example:

Turn off remote access if you don’t routinely need to control a device from afar. Many smart plugs, cameras, or thermostats allow you to disable cloud access and use them only on your local network. If you’re heading on vacation, you might disable remote access temporarily and re-enable it if needed when you return.

Disable voice control or microphones on devices that don’t absolutely require them. A smart TV or webcam that’s always listening for voice commands could be a privacy risk if compromised. If you aren’t using voice features, shut them off (and physically cover or mute cameras/mics when possible).

Limit data sharing and permissions: During setup, smart devices or their apps often request various permissions or ask to collect usage data. Opt out of data collection you’re not comfortable with. In your smartphone’s app settings, review what permissions each smart home app has – for instance, does a smart light’s app really need access to your contacts or location? Probably not. Only grant what’s necessary. Regularly check the privacy settings on the device’s cloud account or app for any new options that may have been added via updates.

Rename devices and accounts: As a minor security-through-obscurity measure, avoid naming your devices in ways that give away their function or your identity (e.g., “John’s Living Room Camera”). Use nicknames or codes only you understand. This way if someone sees your device name on a network, it’s not immediately obvious what it is.

By pruning unused services and tightening privacy options, you minimize the attack surface available to hackers. Think of it as closing windows and backdoors that you don’t need open. The result is a leaner, harder-to-hack smart home setup. And as a bonus, you’ll likely get fewer annoying notifications or privacy trade-offs when only essential features are active.

Purchase Secure Devices & Leverage IoT Security Programs
A crucial aspect of smart home security starts before you even bring a device home: at the point of purchase. Not all gadgets are built with security in mind, so it’s important to choose brands and models known for strong security practices. Here’s what to consider:

Reputation and support: Stick to reputable manufacturers who have a track record of patching vulnerabilities and issuing updates. Do a quick search on a product – has it had past security issues, and did the company address them promptly? Does the company publish a security policy or offer a bug bounty (signs they take security seriously)? Avoid no-name IoT devices from vendors with little information on support; the bargain is not worth the risk if the device is riddled with unpatched flaws.

Unique default credentials: Buy products that require you to set a custom password on first use (many newer devices enforce this, which is good). Some devices even come with a unique default key printed on them. This is far safer than the old universal default logins. In fact, several governments have moved to ban easy default passwords on consumer IoT devices because of how dangerous they are.

Security certifications or labels: Look out for emerging IoT security labels in your region. For instance, the U.S. Cyber Trust Mark program (expected to be active in 2024) will label products that meet strong cybersecurity criteria set by NIST. A device bearing this mark will have features like unique default passwords, data encryption, timely software updates, and even incident detection capabilities.

Other countries or organizations have similar certification programs or standards (such as Europe’s ETSI EN 303 645 standard for consumer IoT security). While these labels are voluntary, they’re a helpful shortcut for consumers to identify products engineered with security best practices. When available, prefer devices with a recognized security badge – it means an extra layer of assurance that the device isn’t trivially hackable.

User community and reviews: Often, smart home enthusiasts will discover and discuss security aspects of devices on forums or review sites. If a particular smart doorbell has a flaw, chances are the community has flagged it. A quick browse of reviews (and not just the five-star ones) can reveal if people have had security or privacy concerns.

Lifespan and updates: Consider how long the device has been on the market and if the manufacturer has committed to supporting it. Some companies clearly state they provide security updates for X years. If you can find that info, favor devices with longer support windows. Avoid buying very old model smart devices (even if on sale) because they might be near end-of-life for support.

By being a savvy shopper and prioritizing security-friendly products, you set yourself up for success. A well-designed device will make it easier to implement all the steps we discussed (it will force you to change defaults, let you enable MFA, receive updates regularly, etc.). In the long run, investing in secure devices saves you from headaches and potential breaches. Remember, every new gadget you connect is another member of your digital household – choose ones you can trust to be well-behaved guests.

Conclusion: Stay Smart, Stay Safe

Securing your smart home devices in 2025 is an ongoing process, but it’s absolutely doable with a bit of vigilance. By following these steps – from strong authentication and network safeguards to regular updates and prudent buying – you drastically reduce the chances of a cyber intruder penetrating your home. The goal is to enjoy the amazing convenience and comfort of smart home technology without sacrificing your privacy or safety.

As you implement these best practices, make a habit of periodically reviewing your setup. Cyber threats will continue to evolve, but the principles you’ve learned (least privilege, defense in depth, and staying updated) will keep you one step ahead. Share these tips with your family members too, so everyone is on the same page about using devices securely.

Your smart home can be both smart and secure – all it takes is the right precautions. So go ahead and use that voice assistant, smart fridge, or security cam with confidence. Just keep your digital doors locked and your systems up to date. For more insights on protecting your connected lifestyle, stay tuned to Nexgyn.io and our latest cybersecurity resources. Stay smart, stay safe, and enjoy your connected home!

Sources

  • Justin Hubbard is a cybersecurity analyst focused on protecting digital assets and financial information in an increasingly connected world. He has advised fintech startups, cryptocurrency investors, and business owners on safeguarding their online presence. Justin’s work blends technical expertise with practical strategies anyone can use to stay secure.

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