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Smart home technology was designed to make your living space more comfortable, more convenient, and more secure. But how do you make your home smarter? Follow along and answer these questions to determine what kind of smart-home system you want to create.

1. Do you want to add a virtual assistant to the mix?

   If you decide to add a voice-controlled assistant, you should start by choosing between Google Home and Amazon Echo, as they are the most widely used devices available at this time.

   The Amazon Echo and Google Home are both capable of playing music and podcasts, answering questions, delivering news reports, and performing simple tasks with the ability to program either one with a variety of different third-party services.

   The Amazon Echo utilizes Amazon’s Alexa and works with a wide variety of third-party apps and services.

   Google Home is very similar to the Amazon Echo but you may prefer it if you are an Android user or are tied to the Google network. The Google Home integrates seamlessly with other Google devices, including the Chromecast.

2. Do you need a smart home hub?

   If you are planning on bringing a variety of connected gadgets into your home, you may want to purchase a smart home hub to synchronize your devices.

   Samsung’s SmartThings is one of the most reputable smart home hubs. It operates with an extensive range of third-party devices. Samsung also offers its own lineup of SmartThings devices, including motion and water sensors, plugs, and a security system that you can easily implement into your household.

   If Samsung isn’t your style there is also the Wink Hub 2 that works with a range of third-party devices including the Amazon Echo and the Google Home. Similarly, to Samsung, Wink offers smart home security devices that communicate with the hub as well. Wink Hub 2 also works with more smart home protocols than any other platform.

3. Connect Away

   Now that you have your smart home hub up and running you can start being creative with what gadgets you connect with it. Choose from: motion sensors, Wi-Fi-connected outlets, thermostats, security cameras, lightbulbs, doorbells, locks, and speakers.

   Most companies are pretty clear about which hubs their products work with so you shouldn’t have any problem determining the products that work for you. But, if there is ever confusion, outlets and light bulbs are probably the easiest connected devices to utilize in your home without disrupting your current set up.