The rapid development of digital technology in the Industry 4.0 era highlights the importance of improving technological literacy from an early age, particularly in the field of the Internet of Things (IoT). However, junior high school students’ understanding of IoT concepts and applications remains limited due to learning processes that are predominantly theoretical and lack hands-on experience. This community service program aimed to enhance students’ understanding and skills in smart technology through the implementation of an IoT-based hydroponic smart garden. The program was conducted at SMPN 12 South Tangerang and involved 30 eighth-grade students. The implementation method employed a Project-Based Learning (PjBL) approach combined with interactive lectures, tool demonstrations, and hands-on learning activities. The learning media consisted of an IoT-based hydroponic smart garden utilizing Arduino Uno, NodeMCU ESP8266, TDS sensors, ultrasonic sensors, and DHT11 sensors for automated hydroponic monitoring and control. Program evaluation was conducted through pre-tests, post-tests, observations, and participant activity assessments. The results showed a significant improvement in students’ learning outcomes, with the average score increasing from 50% in the pre-test to 85% in the post-test, resulting in a normalized gain (N-gain) score of 0.7, which falls into the high category. Furthermore, observational results indicated that participants actively engaged in discussions, group collaboration, and system operation practices throughout the program. The IoT-based hydroponic smart garden also served as an effective learning medium that helped students understand IoT concepts in a more concrete and contextual manner. Therefore, this program contributed positively to enhancing students’ digital literacy and technological skills through practice-oriented learning.