BLOGS

EXPERT I.T. & CYBERSECURITY INSIGHTS

BLOGS

EXPERT I.T. & CYBERSECURITY INSIGHTS

Reliable IT And Cybersecurity Services to Keep

Your Organization Moving Forward

MANAGE

Managed Services

Get IT out of sight, out of mind, and most importantly, out of your way.

PROTECT

Cybersecurity + Data Backup

Rest easy knowing that you are protected today and prepared for whatever tomorrow brings.

ACCELERATE

Technology Enablement

Make technology an enabler instead of a thorn in your side.

Graphic of smart home

10 Most Common Smart Home Issues and How to Fix Them

May 20, 20244 min read

Back when you were a kid, living in a “smart home” probably sounded futuristic. Something out of Back to the Future II or The Jetsons. Well, we don’t yet have flying cars, but we do have video telephones as well as smart refrigerators and voice-activated lights.

But even the most advanced technology can have analog problems. Hackers can get past weak passwords. Bad connections can turn advanced into basic pretty quickly.

Have you run into any issues with your smart home gadgets? Not to worry! We’ve got your back when it comes to troubleshooting several common smart home issues.

Here are some of the most frequent problems. Along with simple steps to get your smart haven back on track.

1. Connectivity Woes

Are your smart gadgets refusing to connect to Wi-Fi? The main claim to fame of smart devices is that you can access them wirelessly. An internet connection is also vital to integrate several devices into a smart home hub.

If your device is having connection issues, check the basics first. Restart your router and your devices. If that doesn't work, ensure you've positioned your router centrally. This gives you optimal signal strength. Consider a mesh network for large houses. Or invest in a Wi-Fi extender for better coverage.

2. Device Unresponsiveness

Now that we have voice-activated devices, we expect them to always answer. It can be frustrating when a device won’t respond to its “wake word.” We might even raise our voice and ask again… only to be ignored.

Are you having trouble with your smart devices not responding to commands? A simple power cycle (turning them off and on) can often do the trick. Check for software updates on your devices. As well as the corresponding apps. Updating software can fix bugs and improve performance.

 3. Battery Drain

Smart devices, especially those battery-powered, can drain quickly. Adjust settings to reduce power consumption. Disable features you don't use. Such as notification lights or constant background updates. Consider replacing batteries with high-quality ones for optimal performance.

4. Incompatibility Issues

Not all smart devices are created equal. Just because it says “smart” on the box doesn’t mean it plays well with others. When a new device won’t interact with your network, it can mean money down the drain.

Before you buy, check to ensure your devices are compatible with each other. Build your devices around your smart home platform. Review the manufacturer's specifications thoroughly to avoid compatibility headaches.

5. Security Concerns

Security is paramount in a smart home. There have been horror stories about hacked baby monitors. These stories can get real very fast. You need to pay attention to securing your devices. Rather than getting caught up in plugging them in as fast as possible.

Use strong and unique passwords for all your devices and accounts. Enable two-factor authentication wherever available. Keep your devices and apps updated with the latest security patches.

A few other smart device security tips include:

  • Change the default device name on your network. Choose something generic.

  • Put smart devices on a separate “guest” network. This keeps them separated from devices with more sensitive data.

  • Turn off unnecessary sharing features. These are often enabled by default.

6. App Troubles

Are you running into sporadic problems? Bugs that crop up intermittently?

Sometimes, the problem might lie with the app itself. Check if any app updates are available and install them. Try logging out and logging back in to refresh the connection. If issues persist, uninstall and reinstall the app.

7. Automation Gone Wrong

Smart home automations can be convenient, but sometimes they malfunction. Review your automation rules and ensure they're set up correctly. Test them individually to identify any faulty triggers or actions.

8. Limited Range

Some smart devices have a limited range. Check the manufacturer’s guide so you know what to expect. Move your devices closer to the hub or router for better communication. Consider using repeaters or extenders if the distance is an issue.

9. Ghost Activity

Ever experienced your smart lights turning on or off randomly? This could be due to factors such as:

  • Accidental voice commands

  • Faulty sensors

  • Scheduled automations you forgot about

  • A hacked device

Review your automation settings and disable any you don't need. Investigate if your devices are picking up unintended voice commands from other sources. Change passwords and watch out for breaches.

10. Feeling Overwhelmed

It’s easy to get overwhelmed when you’re dealing with several smart devices. Don't hesitate to consult your device manuals and online resources. You can also get help from our IT experts for specific troubleshooting steps. These resources can offer more guidance tailored to your situation.

Need Help Securing Your Smart Home?

A smart home should simplify your life, not complicate it. These simple solutions can help you navigate common issues. It’s also important to get a smart home security assessment to keep your family protected.

Contact us today to schedule a security checkup for your smart home and gain peace of mind.

Article used with permission from The Technology Press.

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Graphic of smart home

10 Most Common Smart Home Issues and How to Fix Them

May 20, 20244 min read

Back when you were a kid, living in a “smart home” probably sounded futuristic. Something out of Back to the Future II or The Jetsons. Well, we don’t yet have flying cars, but we do have video telephones as well as smart refrigerators and voice-activated lights.

But even the most advanced technology can have analog problems. Hackers can get past weak passwords. Bad connections can turn advanced into basic pretty quickly.

Have you run into any issues with your smart home gadgets? Not to worry! We’ve got your back when it comes to troubleshooting several common smart home issues.

Here are some of the most frequent problems. Along with simple steps to get your smart haven back on track.

1. Connectivity Woes

Are your smart gadgets refusing to connect to Wi-Fi? The main claim to fame of smart devices is that you can access them wirelessly. An internet connection is also vital to integrate several devices into a smart home hub.

If your device is having connection issues, check the basics first. Restart your router and your devices. If that doesn't work, ensure you've positioned your router centrally. This gives you optimal signal strength. Consider a mesh network for large houses. Or invest in a Wi-Fi extender for better coverage.

2. Device Unresponsiveness

Now that we have voice-activated devices, we expect them to always answer. It can be frustrating when a device won’t respond to its “wake word.” We might even raise our voice and ask again… only to be ignored.

Are you having trouble with your smart devices not responding to commands? A simple power cycle (turning them off and on) can often do the trick. Check for software updates on your devices. As well as the corresponding apps. Updating software can fix bugs and improve performance.

 3. Battery Drain

Smart devices, especially those battery-powered, can drain quickly. Adjust settings to reduce power consumption. Disable features you don't use. Such as notification lights or constant background updates. Consider replacing batteries with high-quality ones for optimal performance.

4. Incompatibility Issues

Not all smart devices are created equal. Just because it says “smart” on the box doesn’t mean it plays well with others. When a new device won’t interact with your network, it can mean money down the drain.

Before you buy, check to ensure your devices are compatible with each other. Build your devices around your smart home platform. Review the manufacturer's specifications thoroughly to avoid compatibility headaches.

5. Security Concerns

Security is paramount in a smart home. There have been horror stories about hacked baby monitors. These stories can get real very fast. You need to pay attention to securing your devices. Rather than getting caught up in plugging them in as fast as possible.

Use strong and unique passwords for all your devices and accounts. Enable two-factor authentication wherever available. Keep your devices and apps updated with the latest security patches.

A few other smart device security tips include:

  • Change the default device name on your network. Choose something generic.

  • Put smart devices on a separate “guest” network. This keeps them separated from devices with more sensitive data.

  • Turn off unnecessary sharing features. These are often enabled by default.

6. App Troubles

Are you running into sporadic problems? Bugs that crop up intermittently?

Sometimes, the problem might lie with the app itself. Check if any app updates are available and install them. Try logging out and logging back in to refresh the connection. If issues persist, uninstall and reinstall the app.

7. Automation Gone Wrong

Smart home automations can be convenient, but sometimes they malfunction. Review your automation rules and ensure they're set up correctly. Test them individually to identify any faulty triggers or actions.

8. Limited Range

Some smart devices have a limited range. Check the manufacturer’s guide so you know what to expect. Move your devices closer to the hub or router for better communication. Consider using repeaters or extenders if the distance is an issue.

9. Ghost Activity

Ever experienced your smart lights turning on or off randomly? This could be due to factors such as:

  • Accidental voice commands

  • Faulty sensors

  • Scheduled automations you forgot about

  • A hacked device

Review your automation settings and disable any you don't need. Investigate if your devices are picking up unintended voice commands from other sources. Change passwords and watch out for breaches.

10. Feeling Overwhelmed

It’s easy to get overwhelmed when you’re dealing with several smart devices. Don't hesitate to consult your device manuals and online resources. You can also get help from our IT experts for specific troubleshooting steps. These resources can offer more guidance tailored to your situation.

Need Help Securing Your Smart Home?

A smart home should simplify your life, not complicate it. These simple solutions can help you navigate common issues. It’s also important to get a smart home security assessment to keep your family protected.

Contact us today to schedule a security checkup for your smart home and gain peace of mind.

Article used with permission from The Technology Press.

Back to Blog

Managed Services

Do you feel like your IT support takes too long to respond? Are you tired of the same recurring issues?

We help you use technology to drive efficiency and mitigate risk. We do it while helping you avoid bloated solutions and unpredictable costs. In other words, working with us means you’ll never have to say “I thought we already fixed that” ever again.

MANAGE

  • Managed IT Services
    Get ongoing maintenance and 24/7 support for your staff.

  • Managed Cloud
    Securely host applications and data in a fully managed, fully compliant data center.

  • Co-Managed
    Ideal for organizations with internal IT

  • Managed VOIP
    Cost-effective, fully supported, and modernized phone systems.

Protect

  • Managed Security Services
    Our right-sized cybersecurity solutions keep your organization protected.

  • Data Backup + Disaster Recovery
    Minimize operational disruption and mitigate risk with onsite and offsite data backup solutions.

  • Security Assessment
    Actionable assessments that keep you compliant and improve cybersecurity resilience.

  • CMMC Compliance
    We will work with you to create a path to successful compliance.

Cybersecurity + Data Backup

Are you unsure about your cybersecurity defenses? Are you afraid that your employees are a potential security liability?

With us, you can rest easy knowing that you are protected today and prepared for whatever tomorrow brings. We don’t just tell you which tool to buy to protect your organization. We walk you through why you need it, which risks it mitigates, what that means for your larger cybersecurity strategy, and how we can help protect you moving forward.

Technology Enablement + Development

Are your disconnected systems impeding efficiency for your team? Do you have critical software and applications that are creating barriers between departments, or even worse, barriers between you and your customers?

At FMS, we believe that technology exists to serve us, not the other way around. We balance simplicity and strength, serving as the guide through IT chaos.

ACCELERATE

  • Sharepoint
    Drive simplicity, efficiency, and secure collaboration.

  • Power BI
    Use data and technology to increase efficiencies and achieve organizational goals.

  • Web Design + Hosting
    Get an updated, user-friendly website.

  • Application Development
    Custom software applications and solutions to meet specific business needs.

© Copyright 2025 • Freedom Managed Services • All Rights Reserved

© Copyright 2025

Freedom Managed Services

All Rights Reserved