Security firms have launched routers at CES that can stop smart household gadgets being hijacked by hackers.
Symantec, BitDefender and Intel unveiled devices that scrutinise data as it flows across home networks.
The companies say routers with built-in defences will be essential as homes are filled with net-connected gadgets.
The routers also come with parental control features that help manage how much time children spend online and what they see.
The "internet of things" refers to the growing collection of smart gadgets that can be controlled via the net."Pretty soon everything will be connected one way or another and managed by a smartphone app," said Mr Balan. "You won't be able to avoid it."
But that interconnectivity and ease of use comes at a cost, he said, adding that the end of 2016 had seen a surge in attacks that compromised net-connected CCTV cameras, televisions and media servers.
The routers also come with parental control features that help manage how much time children spend online and what they see.
The "internet of things" refers to the growing collection of smart gadgets that can be controlled via the net."Pretty soon everything will be connected one way or another and managed by a smartphone app," said Mr Balan. "You won't be able to avoid it."
But that interconnectivity and ease of use comes at a cost, he said, adding that the end of 2016 had seen a surge in attacks that compromised net-connected CCTV cameras, televisions and media servers.
