comments you write, we respond
LETTERS
WE TACKLE TOUGH READER QUESTIONS ON...
> Lockdown IOT Devices
> Windows 10 Pricing
> Focus Assist
Network Security
Hey Zak, I recently bought some smart light bulbs and, reluctantly, I have had to connect them to my router on a guest network. I have a Pi-hole that acts as a DHCP server, so I ran into a few issues and ended up having to allow the guest network access to the Internet and LAN for it to work.
It made me think that it would be nice for you guys to do a write-up about the proper way to segment a home network to keep IoT devices from having access to the main network. And maybe you could even specifically include a Pi-hole as a DHCP server.
Thanks for your hard work on the mag.
–Shawn
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, ZAK STOREY, RESPONDS: Hi Shawn, this is a pretty interesting idea actually, and I know just the man for the job! Ian Evenden is a bit of a Pi fanatic himself (he does most of our tutorials these days using the fruit-based computers), so I’m going to ask him to take a look at this over a few issues (we’re in September as I write this, and the winter schedule is already fully booked up).
But I completely agree, it’s something I personally take for granted. In fact, my network consists of about 33 devices in total, including various LIFX bulbs, Nest cameras and thermostats, Amazon Echos, Kasa smart switches, and suchlike (not forgetting the myriad “oldschool” tech gadgets I have in the house), yet I've never really given it any thought.
You’re right, these devices aren’t exactly bulletproof, so giving them complete access to your main Wi-Fi network might not be the most intelligent of moves.