SafeHome: Automation and Security System Using Internet of Things with Mobile Application

The rapid advancements in Internet of Things (IoT) technology have transformed home automation and security, addressing the demand for convenience, comfort, and energy efficiency. Despite global market growth, barriers such as limited user understanding, power dependency, and lack of localized functionality hinder adoption in the Philippines. To address these challenges, this study developed SafeHome, an IoT-enabled smart home automation and security system. SafeHome integrates ESP32 and Arduino Nano microcontrollers with Firebase Realtime Database, enabling real-time device synchronization and monitoring through an Android mobile application. Key features include PIN-based security, push notifications, ultrasonic presence detection, and a safety breaker to prevent electrical hazards. The system also incorporates offline keypad access and backup power to ensure uninterrupted security operations. Agile Scrum methodology guided the system’s iterative development, emphasizing user-centric design and continuous testing. A quantitative approach was applied to the descriptive research method using a five-point Likert scale in the evaluation. Data were collected from 12 evaluators, comprising six industry professionals and six homeowners, using a survey instrument based on the ISO/IEC 25010:2023 product quality model. The evaluation result from industry professionals is 4.76 out of 5, and 4.93 out of 5 from homeowners, corresponding to an "Excellent" descriptive interpretation. This result shows the developed system meets high security, usability, and user acceptance performance. Overall, the study demonstrates the potential of IoT-driven solutions to bridge gaps in home automation, offering an accessible and adaptable system tailored to local contexts. SafeHome advances smart home technology and addresses critical challenges, ensuring broader adoption and impact in modern residential settings.