As an independent Control4 dealer in Des Moines, IA, smart home technology is our bread and butter. We know how to build sophisticated, stylish systems that merge lighting, audio, and security.

But what makes a fully automated home? Maybe you own an Alexa voice assistant speaker and a Ring video doorbell that connects to your phone. That’s great, but you can achieve so much more with a “level three” smart home.

If you’re new to home automation, get ready to be in awe of your own home. Read on to see the unexpected ways Control4 can enhance daily life.

There are many shades of smart home control. Earlier this year, we asked our readers, “What is your smart home control level?” Some folks only dip their toes into smart technology with one or two devices like a Nest thermostat or Amazon Echo—level one. A next step up, at level two, might mean someone dabbles with a surveillance camera, maybe adds whole home audio to their house, or installs smart lighting. But that’s still not a fully integrated, comprehensive smart home.

That brings us to level three. What makes a ‘real’ smart home? We share the answer below so you can get inspired for home control in your Iowa City, IA property.

Even with all the smart home devices and systems readily available in the market, some folks haven’t jumped in. The reality is that some people are very comfortable with new technology, some love the novelty of doing something differently, and some – often called late adopters – only jump on the bandwagon when the benefits and costs are crystal clear.

There is a whole spectrum of where people are concerning smart technology. The penetration rate of smartphones in the U.S. is currently about 70%, and that is one measure of smart technology as it is the gateway to much of it. But while some may have a smart thermostat like Nest, they may not think they need anything else in that vein. Likewise, another person might have a video doorbell to add security but have little interest in other smart home devices.

Where are you on the smart home control spectrum in your Des Moines IA residence? Let’s explore it in more detail.

A home network is a necessity in the modern world. Whether you're looking up something on the web, the kids are doing school homework or watching a show on Netflix, all of those activities are fully dependent on a robust network and internet connection. We may take that access for granted, but when it doesn’t work correctly, frustration quickly ensues.

Networking issues are often difficult to diagnose. Is it software or hardware? Is it your device or the network that isn't working correctly? Sometimes the quick restart of a device, app, or website can cure the problem. But if slowdowns and dropped connections happen often, it’s a sign of deeper issues.

How can you tell if your home networking is failing you in Urbandale, IA? Read on to find out.