In our last blog, we discussed some of the different levels of interest and investment that we see in smart home control and automation. While the reality is that you can find many levels, we distilled it down to three: People with little or no smart home technology, homes with one or two solutions that are of high interest and perceived value, and fully automated homes that might make George Jetson jealous.

As a smart home integration company, naturally, we would like to see everyone want to go to the highest level. But we realize that not everyone needs or wants a high level of automation, and that’s completely fine. Any smart solution should be something that fits your lifestyle and enhances it. If you don’t use it, it’s not of value to you.

Along that line, we’d like to explore smart home automation for your Davenport, IA home from the "Level 2" view. Level 2 is a home with some smart technology but doesn't approximate the George Jetson lifestyle. Interested in what we mean? Keep reading for more.

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.