AWS Cloud Hosting

This website is hosted on an AWS Lightsail WordPress instance. Lightsail provides a pre-configured environment that includes Linux, Apache, MySQL, and PHP, allowing WordPress to run efficiently without manual server setup. The website is publicly accessible through a domain and IP address.

Figure 1: AWS Lightsail hosting environment

HTTPS Security

HTTPS has been enabled using an SSL certificate configured through Bitnami. This ensures secure communication between users and the server by encrypting all transmitted data.

Figure 2: Secure HTTPS connection

Domain Name

A custom domain, ellensmarterhome.tech, was registered and connected to the AWS Lightsail instance, replacing the default IP address and improving accessibility and professionalism.

DNS Configuration

DNS records were configured to connect the domain name to the server’s IP address. This allows users to access the website through a readable domain instead of a numerical IP.

Figure 3: DNS configuration

API Integration

The OpenWeather API was integrated to provide real-time weather and air quality data. This demonstrates dynamic content and reflects how smart home systems monitor environmental conditions.

Figure 4: API integration

Analytics (Matomo)

Matomo analytics was implemented to track user activity such as page views and engagement. This provides insights into user behaviour while maintaining privacy.

Progressive Web App (PWA)

The website was configured as a Progressive Web App using a WordPress plugin. Users can install the website on their devices and access it like a native application.

WordPress Plugins

Several plugins were used to enhance functionality, including Elementor for design, Yoast SEO for optimisation, Matomo for analytics, Super PWA for app functionality, Tidio Chat for interaction, and WP Dark Mode to simulate a smart home dashboard interface.

Smart Home Interface

WP Dark Mode was used to create a modern interface similar to real smart home dashboards. This improves usability and provides a more immersive user experience.

AI Chatbot

An AI chatbot was integrated using Tidio, allowing users to interact with the website and ask questions about smart home technology in real time.

Media Integration

Images and media were included throughout the website to improve visual appeal and support user understanding.

Screencast Video

The video below demonstrates the design and development of the website and explains how all requirements were met.

Summary

All project requirements have been successfully implemented, including cloud hosting, HTTPS security, DNS configuration, API integration, analytics, PWA functionality, and interactive features. The website demonstrates both technical skills and professional design.