Last updated March 2023
Security by design is a concept that involves designing smart home systems with security in mind from the very beginning.
This means that security measures are integrated into the design of the smart home system, rather than being added as an afterthought.
This concept is also referred to as “security by design”, “secured by design” and “build in security”, among others, and refers to thinking about security at the start of the project.
In the context of smart homes, security by design means taking a holistic approach to security that considers all aspects of the system, including the devices, the network, and the software. This involves identifying potential security risks and vulnerabilities and designing the system in a way that mitigates those risks.
Some specific examples of security by design in smart homes include:
Strong authentication and authorization: Smart home systems should use strong authentication such as multi-factor authentication, to ensure that only authorized users can access the system. This includes ensuring that devices are properly authenticated before being added to the system.
Encrypted communications: Smart home systems should use encryption to protect data in transit between devices and the central hub. This helps to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information.
Regular software updates: Smart home devices should receive regular software updates to address any new security vulnerabilities and in order to patch security holes. This helps to ensure that the system remains secure over time.
Secure network design: Smart home systems should be designed with security in mind, including the use of firewalls and other network security measures to prevent unauthorized access to the system.
By designing smart home systems with security in mind from the very beginning, it is possible to create systems that are more secure and resilient to cyber threats.
This is particularly important in the context of smart homes, where security vulnerabilities can have serious consequences for both personal privacy and physical safety. One of the major challenges for IoT security is the fact that security has not traditionally been considered in product design and manufacturing for connected appliances and objects. Therefore, as the IoT continues its massive expansion and more connected devices proliferate in our connected living, it is important there is a system ensuring that tighter security is put in place.
IoT Glossary
Here are some basic terms and how they relate to The Internet of Things (IoT).
Internet of Things
The Internet of Things or IoT describes an eco-system of connected devices, which can communicate with each other and with people over the internet. We are currently experiencing the first wave of IoT, which has already created considerable hype. Through the IoT, we can control thermostats, the electricity and even our sound systems either by voice activation or through another device.
Security by design
Security by design is an approach to software and hardware development where security is built in from the beginning and not as a late addition after a hacking incident. The need for security by design has become crucial as tech companies continue to churn out a myriad of IoT objects for consumers and enterprises.
Industrial Internet of Things
The Industrial Internet of Things or IIoT is the use of IoT technology but in manufacturing and factory-based work. These industries require IoT to operate on a greater level, with increased capacity and intelligence in order to maximize its benefits. Often referred to as Industry 4.0, IIoT is revolutionizing industry, helping cut costs, increase storage and improving use of data.
IoT Platform
An IoT platform is an integral part of the IoT eco-system, helping collect, store and analyze data on the cloud before presenting the information on a device. This is most helpful in a business environment, when the IoT platform is able to process data in real-time, showing employers a complete overview of their company, from inefficiencies to maintenance requirements.
IoT Gateway
An IoT Gateway is a physical device or software program that serves as the point of connection to the cloud for several devices. As multiple devices can connect to the cloud, the gateway translates each protocol, usually at the edge, to make the IoT a reality. An IoT gateway can also provide additional security for the network and data it transports. Through tamper detection and encryption, it can protect data moving to the cloud from leaks or from IoT devices installed with malicious software.
Machine-to-Machine (M2M)
Often abbreviated to M2M, machine-to-machine is a broad term, encompassing all technologies which enable IoT devices to automatically exchange information and perform actions, without the intervention or assistance of humans. The most common form of M2M communication is in remote monitoring. In warehousing for instance, when stock becomes low, the machine will automatically communicate with the distributor that more needs to be delivered. This will save the employer both time and money.
Cloud Computing
Cloud Computing delivers computing services (data, storage, servers, networking, software etc.) over the internet – or the ‘the cloud’. This means that companies can access these resources as a utility (electricity) rather than having to build and maintain computing infrastructures in-house and therefore save money.