Ah, the blending of home and modern technology, a virtual synergy of safety, security and peace of mind, with high-tech guardians to make you that much more comfy.

Of course, even after you have acquired, sired and hard-wired you home for the digital age, there's always the question of who will guard the guardian.

With all the new remote technology, you'll soon be able to turn on your heater, microwave and VCR before you leave work ... all from your desktop at the office.

But what are the privacy implications and other unintended consequences of going digital?

Will advertisers know when your Mr. Coffee begins to brew? Will they be able to tap your computer, or tap into monitor your power usage patterns. Maybe they'll watch how often you call your attorney, or doctor or priest.

And how long before government goes snooping around, turning a commercial annoyance into a bonafide threat to your privacy and rights? How long before Big Brother really is watching you?

And, in turn, what are the costs if you turn you back on the future? These and other issues about the digital home are discussed in full detail in a Special Report from ZDNet .