A Secure and Cost-Effective IoT Framework for Scalable Smart Lighting and Appliance Control

Abstract

An IoT-based smart lighting and appliance control system using an Arduino Mega, relay modules, and motion sensors is designed and implemented with very Low cost. The system allows remote operation of lights, fans, and air conditioners through a web application developed with Angular (frontend) and Node.js (backend). Communication between the hardware and server is handled via the MQTT protocol. To enhance security, a selfhosted MQTT server was developed, ensuring controlled access, encrypted communication, and authentication for connected devices. Self-hosted MQTT server prevents unauthorized commands and data interception, addressing common vulnerabilities found in public MQTT brokers. Additionally, the system incorporates motion sensor-based automation, enabling lights to turn on only when movement is detected, thereby improving energy efficiency. Testing confirmed the system’s ability to deliver secure, fast, and reliable control, making it suitable for residential and commercial applications, with potential for future scalability.