Smart Home & IoT Devices
Smart speakers, security cameras, thermostats, and countless other IoT (Internet of Things) devices rely on your home internet. Here’s how to set them up properly and keep them running smoothly on your GoTroppo NBN connection.
What is IoT?
IoT (Internet of Things) refers to everyday devices that connect to the internet. Common examples include:
- Smart speakers – Amazon Echo, Google Home, Apple HomePod
- Security cameras – Ring, Arlo, Eufy, Nest
- Video doorbells – Ring, Nest, Eufy
- Smart displays – Echo Show, Google Nest Hub
- Smart TVs – Any TV with streaming apps
- Smart plugs and switches – TP-Link, Belkin WeMo
- Robot vacuums – iRobot, Roborock, Ecovacs
- Smart thermostats – Nest, Sensibo
- Smart locks – August, Yale, Schlage
- Smart appliances – Fridges, washing machines, ovens
Bandwidth Requirements
Most smart home devices use very little bandwidth individually. The exception is video devices:
| Device Type | Bandwidth Usage |
|---|---|
| Smart speaker (Alexa, Google) | Minimal (only when in use) |
| Smart plug/switch | Minimal |
| Smart thermostat | Minimal |
| Robot vacuum | Low (occasional updates) |
| 1080p security camera | 2-4 Mbps each (when streaming) |
| 4K security camera | 8-15 Mbps each (when streaming) |
| Video doorbell | 1-3 Mbps (when active) |
Planning for Multiple Cameras
Security cameras can add up quickly. For multiple HD cameras streaming simultaneously:
- 2-3 cameras – NBN 25 should handle it
- 4-6 cameras – NBN 50 recommended
- 6+ cameras – Consider NBN 100
Upload speed matters – Cameras upload footage to the cloud, so your upload bandwidth is important. Check your connection type for upload capabilities.
Setting Up Smart Devices
General Setup Steps
- Download the manufacturer’s app – Usually required for setup
- Create an account – Most devices need an account with the manufacturer
- Power on the device – Follow the app’s instructions
- Connect to WiFi – The app will guide you through connecting to your network
- Complete setup – Name your device, configure settings
- Update firmware – Always update to the latest version
2.4GHz vs 5GHz WiFi
Many smart home devices only work on 2.4GHz WiFi. This is because:
- 2.4GHz has better range and wall penetration
- Older/simpler devices only support 2.4GHz
- Lower bandwidth requirements don’t need 5GHz speeds
If your device won’t connect, check if you’re trying to connect to a 5GHz network. You may need to:
- Use your router’s 2.4GHz network (often has different name)
- Temporarily disable 5GHz or band steering during setup
- Split your WiFi into separate 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks
Tips for Successful Setup
- Be near your router during initial setup
- Have your WiFi password ready
- Update your phone’s app before starting
- Disable VPN on your phone if setup fails
- Try resetting the device if it won’t enter setup mode
WiFi Coverage for Smart Homes
Smart devices placed throughout your home need consistent WiFi coverage. Poor coverage leads to:
- Devices going offline
- Slow response to voice commands
- Camera footage gaps
- Delayed notifications
Improving Coverage
Mesh WiFi systems are ideal for smart homes:
- Multiple access points provide whole-home coverage
- Devices automatically connect to the strongest signal
- Popular options: Google Nest WiFi, Eero, TP-Link Deco
WiFi extenders can help but:
- May create separate network names
- Some devices struggle when moving between networks
- Mesh is generally better for smart homes
See our WiFi improvement guide for more tips.
Security Considerations
Every device on your network is a potential security risk. Protect your smart home:
Essential Security Steps
- Change default passwords – Many devices come with weak defaults
- Keep firmware updated – Manufacturers patch security vulnerabilities
- Use strong WiFi password – WPA2 or WPA3 encryption
- Enable two-factor authentication – On device accounts that support it
- Review app permissions – Don’t grant unnecessary access
Consider a Separate Network
For enhanced security, put IoT devices on a separate network:
- Use your router’s guest network for IoT devices
- Some routers offer dedicated IoT networks
- If a device is compromised, it can’t access your main devices
Privacy Awareness
- Smart speakers – Review and delete voice recordings periodically
- Cameras – Be mindful of what they capture; check cloud storage policies
- Location services – Disable if not needed
- Data sharing – Review privacy settings in each app
For more security tips, see our network security guide.
Managing Many Devices
As you add more smart devices, organisation becomes important:
Naming Conventions
- Use clear, consistent names (e.g., “Living Room Light”, “Front Door Camera”)
- Include location in the name for voice control
- Avoid similar names that confuse voice assistants
Group Devices
- Create rooms/groups in your smart home app
- Control multiple devices with one command
- “Turn off living room” controls all living room devices
Keep Track of Your Devices
- Maintain a list of devices and their accounts
- Note which app controls each device
- Record device locations for troubleshooting
Router Device Limits
Most home routers have limits on how many devices can connect:
- Basic routers – 15-32 devices
- Mid-range routers – 32-64 devices
- High-end routers – 100+ devices
Smart homes can easily have 20-30+ devices. Count everything:
- Phones, tablets, laptops, computers
- Smart TVs, streaming devices
- Smart speakers (each counts as one device)
- Smart plugs, switches, bulbs (each one!)
- Cameras, doorbells
- Appliances, thermostats
If you’re hitting limits, consider a router upgrade. See our modem buying guide.
Troubleshooting Smart Device Issues
Device Won’t Connect to WiFi
- Confirm you’re using 2.4GHz network (not 5GHz)
- Check WiFi password is correct (case-sensitive)
- Move device closer to router during setup
- Reset the device and try setup again
- Restart your router
Device Goes Offline Frequently
- Check WiFi signal strength at device location
- Move device closer to router or add mesh node
- Check for interference from other devices
- Update device firmware
- Check router’s DHCP lease settings
Slow Response / Lag
- Check your internet connection speed
- Too many devices may overload your router
- Server issues with the device manufacturer
- Try restarting the device
Camera Buffering or Poor Quality
- Check upload speed – cameras need good upload bandwidth
- Reduce camera resolution settings if needed
- Limit how many cameras stream simultaneously
- Use Ethernet for cameras if possible (some support it)
Voice Commands Not Working
- Check if the linked account is working (re-link if needed)
- Verify device names aren’t confusing the assistant
- Check the device hasn’t gone offline
- Update both the smart speaker and device apps
Power Outages and Smart Devices
After a power outage:
- Most devices reconnect automatically when power returns
- Your router may take longer to boot – devices may show offline temporarily
- Some devices need manual reconnection – check any that stay offline
- Smart locks usually maintain function – battery backup means they keep working
Consider a UPS (battery backup) for your router to keep smart devices working during short outages.
Popular Ecosystems
Amazon Alexa
- Works with thousands of devices
- Echo devices can act as hubs for some products
- Strong automation through “Routines”
Google Home
- Excellent integration with Nest products
- Strong voice recognition
- Good automation features
Apple HomeKit
- Best privacy-focused option
- Requires Apple devices
- Fewer compatible devices but growing
Matter Standard
Matter is a new universal standard that allows devices from different ecosystems to work together. Look for the Matter logo on new devices for maximum compatibility.
Need Help?
While we can’t troubleshoot specific smart home devices (each manufacturer provides their own support), we can help with:
- Internet connection issues affecting your devices
- WiFi coverage problems
- Speed or bandwidth concerns
- General networking questions