UNDERSTANDING AND MITIGATING SECURITY VULNERABILITIES IN MULTI-DEVICE SMART HOME ARCHITECTURES

Abstract

Inspired by a thorough investigation of IoT security flaws and smart home designs, this article investigates the increasing cybersecurity issues raised by the increasing number of connected devices in homes. By evaluating real-world attack vectors, network topology weaknesses, and data privacy implications, this article demonstrates how the expanding attack surface created by interconnected IoT devices significantly increases the risk of unauthorized access and data breaches in smart homes. Through detailed technical analysis of common vulnerabilities, including firmware deficiencies, weak authentication mechanisms, and insecure communication protocols, we present evidence that the average smart home with 10-20 connected devices creates multiple entry points for malicious actors. This article proposes a comprehensive security framework incorporating network segmentation, enhanced authentication protocols, and continuous monitoring strategies, while examining notable case studies such as the Mirai botnet attack to illustrate the practical implications of these vulnerabilities. This article emphasizes the critical need for improved security standards in IoT device manufacturing and provides actionable recommendations for implementing robust security controls in smart home environments, including advanced encryption methods, automated security monitoring, and zero-trust architectures.