[misterhouse-users] Re: Home Automation Security

[Ken D. <ke...@kd...>]

Sorry about that.  When I think about the X10 system (or the entire =
automation system), I see a network.  Even the serial connection to the =
X10 controller is part of the network.  I recall people talking about X10 =
signals from other homes interfering with their system.  What I am most =
concerned with are the wireless devices.  Is there a way to secure the =
system from unwanted access?  Are there other products besides X10 that =
are more secure (and work with MH)?

I hope this clears up my original question.

Merry Christmas

>>> md...@mi... 12/25/00 05:23AM >>>
At 12:34 AM 12/25/2000 -0800, you wrote:
>I'm wanting to automate my new home but am concerned about security of =
the=20
>automation network.  Any suggestions on how to properly set up a =
secure=20
>system (or is there such a thing???).

I don't understand the question.  What automation network are you speaking =
of?

If you use MisterHouse on a PC, it communicates to an X-10 transceiver =
via=20
a serial cable, so there's no network there.

Once you get into the X-10 protocol, I'm not sure how you define=20
"security."  X-10 signals travel over house power wiring, so it would =
be=20
pretty hard for someone to tap-in and control your house that way.

OTOH, there are many wireless devices that use radio or infrared signals =
to=20
communicate with an X-10 receiver.  Other radio devices (e.g., garage =
door=20
openers, cordless telephones) can use the same frequency band, so it's =
very=20
likely that they could interfere with - or even control - your home =
devices.

Can you clarify what you have in mind regarding security?

Mike