While there are many benefits of having a connected home where all your technology works together, there’s one glaring drawback for many potential clients. What if someone hacks your home networking system? Not only would they get access to your computer’s information, but also to your security system, climate control and more. The integrators at Relative Home Systems make it their priority to strengthen your network’s security protocols in order to protect your family’s safety and privacy.

SEE MORE: Is Your Network Equipped to Handle a Connected Home?

Buying the Right Equipment

Many of the new connected devices on the market –from thermostats to speakers—where created with convenience in mind, not security. For our Savant or Crestron automation systems, we bring together only products with an established track record of performance and security. We ensure all your connected devices include the necessary software to reduce the risk of viruses or malware.

It all begins with a router with enhanced security features. For example, Pakedge routers come with a multi-layer security system. Through the use of firewalls, VPNs and guest networks, they can reduce the risk of outside parties hacking the system. For advanced systems, like a full home automation solution, go with a Unified Threat Management system which lets an administrator monitor your system for any security vulnerabilities or issues.

It seems every day new smart technology hits the market. There are thermostats, lights, cameras, locks and even humidifiers that boast the smart label. But are they worth the investment? The professional integrators from Relative Home Systems can help you navigate through the latest technology and incorporate it all into a smart home control system. Read on to find out we can ‘smarten up’ your Memorial, Texas home.

SEE MORE: Relative Home Systems Overcomes Smart Home Challenges

Making Sure You Get the Best Equipment

There are thousands of options flooding the market from individual solutions –like the Nest thermostat—to full smart home hubs. With years of experience, Relative Home System serves as your advisor to get you past the clutter and impostors. According to your needs and specific budget, we work with you to create a solution that includes only the best products in the market. We work with Savant Systems and Crestron for your smart automation needs due to their compatibility with multiple products. This way you get versatility and reliability in your system.

Install Only the Components You Need

As your local Savant Systems dealer, part of our job is keeping you updated whenever any new features or products are available for your Austin, Texas home. In this blog, we'll talk about the company's latest releases which include new music streaming and control options, an improved user interface and new video distribution products. Read on to explore all the latest Savant offerings. 

SEE MORE: 4 Best Features of the Savant Systems App

Improved User Interface

When it comes to the average consumer, the change to the Savant Systems user interface is the biggest news from the company’s Pro 8.0 software release. The new user interface is all about creating a comprehensive view of the system. On your main screen, icons represent all the technology included in the home. If you hold down a particular icon, you can get a drop down menu showing all the control options for that specific subsystem. This general user interface is the same for each room in the home. This way it's easier to get what you want within a few button presses.

New Streaming Options

What part does music play in your River Oaks, Texas home? It could be listening to it as you get ready for work, streaming a playlist when hosting friends or winding down in a dedicated listening room. If you often find solace in your favorite albums, it may be worthwhile to invest in a whole home audio system. We know how personal your music can be, so Relative Home Systems crafts a solution that works specifically to meet your needs. Below are some questions you should ask yourself before getting started.

SEE MORE: Elevate Your Listening Experience With Bowers & Wilkins

Should You Go Wired or Wireless?

Streaming services like Pandora and Tidal have changed the way we listen to music. With wireless access to our music, it's easy to gravitate towards a wireless speaker system as well. The demand has been so high that even high-end manufacturers like Bowers & Wilkins have joined the movement. Wireless is a great option since it’s easier to install, but it does have its drawbacks.

Even in the best wireless systems, some quality may be lost. While we can bolster your home network to play uncompressed files, a wired solution will ultimately get the most out of a whole home audio system. It is easier to incorporate multiple rooms through the use of receivers or matrix switchers and you can integrate multiple sources at once, whether it’s a streaming service on your phone or a vintage turntable.

It’s finally summertime! The weather is beautiful, the kids are home from school, and your summer vacation is just around the corner. This time is all about relaxing with a beer by the pool or a movie marathon with the family. So what better time to take advantage of a smart home control system? Find out how the right solution can simplify the day-to-day living in your River Oaks, Texas home so you can focus on basking in the sun.

SEE MORE: 3 Ways Smart Control Can Be a Parenting Tool

Get the Most of Your Outdoor Spaces

Smart home control simplifies all the technology in your outdoor spaces. Want to listen to some music? Use your smartphone to pick out the song you want to play on the speakers installed throughout your patio. If a new guest arrives while you’re out back, receive a notification on your phone and let them in remotely. The celebration doesn’t have to end as soon as it gets dark. Schedule your landscape lights to go on at 7 p.m. to keep the darkness from spoiling the party.

Let Your Home Counteract the Heat

While there are many benefits of having a connected home where all your technology works together, there’s one glaring drawback for many potential clients. What if someone hacks your home networking system? Not only would they get access to your computer’s information, but also to your security system, climate control and more. The integrators at Relative Home Systems make it their priority to strengthen your network’s security protocols in order to protect your family’s safety and privacy.

SEE MORE: Is Your Network Equipped to Handle a Connected Home?

Buying the Right Equipment

Many of the new connected devices on the market –from thermostats to speakers—where created with convenience in mind, not security. For our Savant or Crestron automation systems, we bring together only products with an established track record of performance and security. We ensure all your connected devices include the necessary software to reduce the risk of viruses or malware.

It all begins with a router with enhanced security features. For example, Pakedge routers come with a multi-layer security system. Through the use of firewalls, VPNs and guest networks, they can reduce the risk of outside parties hacking the system. For advanced systems, like a full home automation solution, go with a Unified Threat Management system which lets an administrator monitor your system for any security vulnerabilities or issues.