Published Online:September 2024
Product Name:The IUP Journal of Information Technology
Product Type:Article
Product Code:IJIT030924
Author Name:Ajaegbu Chigozirim , Deshi Shiligak Josiah , Onadeko David Oluwaseun and Adediran Oluwaseyi
Availability:YES
Subject/Domain:Engineering
Download Format:PDF
Pages:17
Smart home technologies have evolved significantly since the 1970s, with recent advancements in Internet of Things (IoT) and cloud computing revolutionizing home automation. However, current systems face challenges in achieving seamless cloud integration, ensuring interoperability, and maintaining robust security. This paper addresses these issues by proposing an innovative cloud-integrated smart home system designed for the Nigerian market. The research aimed at developing a system that optimizes energy consumption, enhances user experience, and implements robust security measures. Specific objectives included: creating a coded interface with a cloud database, designing a Wi-Fi-connected smart home system, and building a system with enhanced home security through user authentication. The methodology employed an ESP32 microcontroller for wireless connectivity and real-time functionality, integrated with the Arduino platform and a GSM system for SMS alerts. The system utilized Wi-Fi for interconnecting sensors and the database, allowing smartphone control through a user-friendly mobile application. Constrained Application Protocol (CoAP) was implemented for efficient data transfer between constrained devices. The results demonstrated significant improvements over traditional systems, including extended range and scalability, more reliable communication, stronger security through cloud storage and encryption, enhanced interoperability with various smart home devices and cost-effectiveness. The system showed substantial energy savings through intelligent control of home appliances. The paper concludes a well-rounded framework for the ongoing development and evaluation of smart home systems tailored to user needs, while fortifying security. The system’s affordability, ease of use and energy efficiency make it particularly suitable for the Nigerian market and similar emerging markets. This study contributes valuable insights for developers, industry standards and policymakers, underpinning the vision of universally adopted, secure and sustainable smart homes.
The evolution of smart home technologies represents a significant paradigm shift in residential living, spanning from the mid-1970s to the present day. This journey began with the X10 protocol, which utilized home AC wiring for device communication. Despite its innovation, the X10 system faced limitations due to its complexity, high costs and reliability issues (Nathan, 2022).