Smart home expert Steve Itoje explains why you need ongoing support.
1. Wear and tear
Elements of your system, such as the hard drives of your CCTV system, will begin to perform less optimally over time. It is unrealistic to think the same piece of kit you installed right at the start is going to give the same level of service year after year.
2. Security vulnerabilities
If you are still running old operating systems, the chance that a hacker could find a way in becomes slightly greater as the years go by. The only way to be insulated against such a risk is to be sure you are running the most recent systems.
3. Bug fixes
You know from your smart phone that apps are constantly being checked and revised by their developers to make sure small issues and inconsistencies do not compromise the quality of their service. The same principle applies to the software driving your smart home.
4. Performance improvements
Similarly, the software your home uses is constantly being upgraded to make sure it delivers a genuinely cutting-edge, state-of-the-art standard of service. Only by employing the services of an expert can you be sure that your home is benefiting from those upgrades.
5. New features
Quite apart from software upgrades, there may be improvements coming down the line from the suppliers providing your equipment and connectivity. You can be sure you take advantage of these enhancements by having a regular check-up, during which they will be implemented.
6. Compatibility with other devices
If your home features appliances that can be upgraded separately to your smart systems, the communication between them may be less than ideal if your installations have not kept pace. The only way to be sure all your technology is working smoothly together is by having your system serviced regularly.
