Wall outlets might not steal the spotlight when it comes to smart home upgrades, but they're more important (and more advanced) than ever. As our homes fill up with devices, from phones and tablets to ...

Smart plugs are the simpler option: You plug them directly into an existing outlet, and they add a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth receiver between the wall and whatever you're powering. No installation required.

Lauren is a writer and architectural designer living and working in Brooklyn, NY. In addition to being a writer at Forbes, she works as a freelance architectural designer specializing in residential ...