Amazon Sidewalk is a program Amazon is rolling out that will create a mesh network of all capable Amazon devices; devices like Echo, Ring Security Cams, outdoor lighting, motion sensors, and Tile trackers. Sidewalk will allow these devices to connect to wireless networks and boosts the power of the signal. This feature is turned on by default and has an opt-out option. Before I explain how to opt-out, lets go over the pros and cons of Sidewalk.
By creating a mesh network via its own devices, users will experience more internet coverage and stay connected more easily. However, for a large scale mesh network to function Amazon needs many devices to participate in the program, which is why it is turned on by default. This network or devices is not limited to your devices either – the network is all capable devices. This raises security and privacy concerns. Amazon has taken steps to make sure that your data remains encrypted and secure but for those that do not want their devices being access by any other devices the opt-out of the sidewalk program is the best bet.
To opt-out go into your Alexa app and tap on the More tab at the bottom. Select Settings > Account Settings > Amazon Sidewalk. From there you can toggle the “Enable” setting to turn off Sidewalk.
The idea behind this product is innovative and beneficial to users but if you have privacy concerns you should evaluate those benefits compared to the risks and decide whether to leave Sidewalk on or off.
