{"id":117,"date":"2023-02-17T14:27:17","date_gmt":"2023-02-17T14:27:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/?p=117"},"modified":"2026-10-09T10:22:12","modified_gmt":"2026-10-09T10:22:12","slug":"smart-home-design","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/blog\/smart-home-design\/","title":{"rendered":"Smart Home Design"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"et_pb_section_0 et_pb_section et_section_specialty et_pb_gutters3 et_block_section\"><div class=\"et_pb_row et_block_row\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_0 et_pb_column et_pb_specialty_column et_pb_column_2_3 et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_row_inner_0 et_pb_row_inner et_block_row\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_inner_0 et_pb_column_inner et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_0 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Importance_of_Network_Coverage_in_the_Design_of_a_Smart_Home\"><\/span><span>The Importance of Network Coverage in the Design of a Smart Home<\/span>.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2><div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_89 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/blog\/smart-home-design\/#The_Importance_of_Network_Coverage_in_the_Design_of_a_Smart_Home\" >The Importance of Network Coverage in the Design of a Smart Home.<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/blog\/smart-home-design\/#Device_Communication_network_coverage\" >Device Communication (network coverage)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/blog\/smart-home-design\/#Energy_Efficiency_most_savings\" >Energy Efficiency (most savings)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/blog\/smart-home-design\/#User_Experience_voice_control_dashboards\" >User Experience (voice control &amp; dashboards)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/blog\/smart-home-design\/#Future-Proofing_grow_to_10_50_or_even_100_devices\" >Future-Proofing (grow to 10, 50 or even 100 devices)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/blog\/smart-home-design\/#Network_Types_best_mix_of_protocols\" >Network Types (best mix of protocols<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/blog\/smart-home-design\/#Size_matters\" >Size matters<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/blog\/smart-home-design\/#What_is_the_Matter\" >What is (the) Matter?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/blog\/smart-home-design\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/blog\/smart-home-design\/#Tags_used_in_this_article\" >Tags used in this article<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p>Who thinks about \u201cnetwork coverage\u201d and \u201ccompatibility\u201d when buying the first smart device? You just want to get going and don't think about what it all looks like a year from now once you've purchased 10 more devices (trust me, it's going to happen) and then find out that it doesn't all work flawlessly after all.<\/p>\n<p>In today's fast-paced world, the concept of a smart home has evolved from a futuristic dream into a tangible reality. With the integration of cutting-edge technologies, homeowners can now control various aspects of their living space with just a few taps on their smartphones or voice commands to virtual assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant.<\/p>\n<p>However, the seamless operation of these smart devices hinges on a critical factor often overlooked in the design process: <strong>network coverage<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span>Let's delve into why network coverage is so important and how it affects the design of a smart home.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_column_1 et_pb_column et_pb_column_single et_pb_column_1_3 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_image_0 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/smart-home-stopped-working.jpg\" width=\"1024\" height=\"715\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/smart-home-stopped-working.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/smart-home-stopped-working-980x684.jpg 980w, https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/smart-home-stopped-working-480x335.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1024px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-747\" title=\"smart-home-stopped working\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_text_1 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>The most common reason for issues in your smart home is network coverage and compatibility or rather insufficient signal and networks getting in each other's way.<\/p>\n<p>That is why it is important to make some choices from the beginning and we have listed them below.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_section_1 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section\"><div class=\"et_pb_row_0 et_pb_row et_block_row\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_2 et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_2 et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_2 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\">\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_column_3 et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_2 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_3 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><blockquote>\n<p><span>The design of a smart home isn't just about choosing the latest gadgets and appliances; it's about ensuring that these devices can communicate effectively with each other and with the user.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_text_4 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p><span><strong>This is where network coverage comes into play<\/strong>, as it directly impacts the reliability and performance of your smart home ecosystem.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_section_2 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section\"><div class=\"et_pb_row_1 et_pb_row et_block_row\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_4 et_pb_column et_pb_column_2_3 et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_5 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><ul>\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Device_Communication_network_coverage\"><\/span>Device Communication (network coverage)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Most important! Smart devices need to communicate with each other to create a cohesive and efficient home automation system. Whether it's your security cameras, thermostat, lighting, or entertainment system, these devices rely on a network connection to function correctly. Inadequate network coverage can lead to disconnections, delays, or device malfunctions, disrupting the entire ecosystem.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_text_6 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>In the smart home industry there is <strong>not a single type of network<\/strong> communication (yet) - no - there is of course WiFi and there is Zigbee (very important), Zwave and bluetooth. Besides this, not al manufacturers who use this network protocols keep to the standards and made their own variant which of course, does not communicate with the rest.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_column_5 et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_3 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_image_1 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/no-smart-home-standards.jpg\" width=\"1074\" height=\"660\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/no-smart-home-standards.jpg 1074w, https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/no-smart-home-standards-980x602.jpg 980w, https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/no-smart-home-standards-480x295.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1074px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-1623\" title=\"no-smart-home-standards\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_text_7 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>There is an interesting article (English) <a href=\"https:\/\/www.iotforall.com\/smart-home-data-communication-standards\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Smart Homes Need Data Communication Standards\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_text_8 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>This proprietary behaviour of manufacturers is slowly fading out (thanks to the Matter protocol, see further) but still there are issues and lucky for you, we know the pitfalls to avoid.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_2 et_pb_row et_block_row\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_6 et_pb_column et_pb_column_2_3 et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_9 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><ul>\n<li><span style=\"color: #2ea3f2; font-family: 'Share Tech Mono'; font-size: 28px;\">Security (keep things local)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Security is (or should be) a top concern for smart home owners. However, there is an abundant amount of smart devices on the market that only connect with the manufacturers server and you need have\u00a0 to use their app to control your device.<\/p>\n<p>Did I say \"your\" device? A smart device that is completely depending on a connection to the server of the manufacturer <strong>is and will not be \"your\" device. <\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Network design plays a crucial role in ensuring that security cameras, door locks, and alarm systems can transmit data reliably. Weak or inconsistent network signals can leave vulnerabilities in your home's security, potentially exposing your property and personal data to cyber threats. To keep (smart) things local, you need to know what protocol a device is using and if it can be controlled locally. There are enough manufacturers on the market that keep the standards in mind and although they use a hub or a app, the device can also be used locally with Home Assistant, the software we can build your smart home with.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_column_7 et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_3 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_image_2 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/lewis-local-control.jpg\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1125\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/lewis-local-control.jpg 2000w, https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/lewis-local-control-1280x720.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/lewis-local-control-980x551.jpg 980w, https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/lewis-local-control-480x270.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) and (max-width: 1280px) 1280px, (min-width: 1281px) 2000px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-1629\" title=\"lewis-local-control\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_text_10 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>Lewis from \"<a href=\"https:\/\/everythingsmarthome.co.uk\/5-reasons-your-smart-home-should-be-local\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"5 Reasons Your Smart Home Should Be Local\">Everything Smart Home<\/a>\" has made a <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/H7OIHueCmSs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"5 reasons that a local smart home is just plain better\">video<\/a> about local control.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_text_11 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>Have a look at the list of Home Assistant integrations <a href=\"https:\/\/www.home-assistant.io\/integrations\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Home Assistant integrations\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_3 et_pb_row et_block_row\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_8 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_12 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><ul>\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Energy_Efficiency_most_savings\"><\/span>Energy Efficiency (most savings)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span>Many smart home devices are designed to enhance energy efficiency. For example, a smart thermostat can adjust your heating and cooling based on occupancy and outdoor temperature. To do this effectively, these devices require a stable and robust network connection to receive real-time data. Inconsistent coverage could lead to inefficiencies, negating the purpose of these energy-saving devices.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_4 et_pb_row et_block_row\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_9 et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_2 et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_13 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><ul>\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"User_Experience_voice_control_dashboards\"><\/span>User Experience (voice control &amp; dashboards)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span>The ultimate goal of a smart home is to make your life easier and more convenient. However, network issues can lead to frustrating experiences, such as voice commands not being recognized, delayed responses, or apps failing to control devices. A well-designed network ensures a smooth and enjoyable user experience.<\/span>\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_column_10 et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_2 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_14 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p><span>A preview on my dashboard running on a tablet in the living:<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_image_3 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/dasboard-tablet.jpg\" class=\"et_pb_lightbox_image\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/dasboard-tablet.jpg\" width=\"1702\" height=\"1186\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/dasboard-tablet.jpg 1702w, https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/dasboard-tablet-1280x892.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/dasboard-tablet-980x683.jpg 980w, https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/dasboard-tablet-480x334.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) and (max-width: 1280px) 1280px, (min-width: 1281px) 1702px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-1632\" title=\"dasboard-tablet\" \/><\/span><\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_5 et_pb_row et_block_row\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_11 et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_5 et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_15 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><ul>\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Future-Proofing_grow_to_10_50_or_even_100_devices\"><\/span>Future-Proofing (grow to 10, 50 or even 100 devices)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span>As technology advances, new smart devices and protocols emerge. A well-planned network infrastructure can adapt to these changes and support the integration of new devices seamlessly. It's essential to consider the scalability of your network when designing your smart home. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>For example take smart lighting; you will start with a few but soon discover that there are many advantages that come with smart lighting. First of all they are cheaper than you think - for approximately \u20ac10 you have an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ikea.com\/nl\/nl\/cat\/slimme-verlichting-36812\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"IKEA Tradfri\">IKEA Tradri<\/a> bulb or spot - and if you keep in mind that smart also means dimmable start calculating what a (not so smart) wall dimmer costs and you still have to buy dimmable bulbs, spots or strips and do all kind of complex wiring. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>Oh, did I mention that you have to come out of your chair to operate a not so smart wall switch? At the end of the day there so many advantages with smart devices that you soon will be expanding more over the house.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_column_12 et_pb_column et_pb_column_2_5 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_image_4 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ikea-tradfri-lighting.jpg\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ikea-tradfri-lighting.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ikea-tradfri-lighting-980x551.jpg 980w, https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/ikea-tradfri-lighting-480x270.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1200px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-1636\" title=\"ikea-tradfri-lighting\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_text_16 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p><span>Just for the record, all IKEA Tradfri products can be seamlessly integrated in Home Assistant without a hub.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_6 et_pb_row et_block_row\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_13 et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_2 et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_17 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><ul>\n<li>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Network_Types_best_mix_of_protocols\"><\/span>Network Types (best mix of protocols<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span>To achieve comprehensive coverage, it's important to understand the different network types used in smart homes. Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Z-Wave, and Bluetooth are among the most common. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, and a good smart home design will incorporate the right mix of these technologies to ensure complete coverage throughout the house.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>There is an extensive article <a href=\"https:\/\/theiotpad.com\/home-automation-protocols\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Comparison of Home Automation Protocols \u2013 Which Protocol is Best\">here<\/a> about the different protocols here compairing pro and cons.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>My takeaway, pick Wifi only if you need <strong>and<\/strong> if you have enough coverage <strong>and<\/strong> only if they can be operated with local Wifi, <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>Take Zigbee and or Bluetooth for sensors that cannot be wired and ethernet for devices with high bandwidth like camera's. Zigbee and especially bluetooth are battery operated and very energy efficient<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_column_14 et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_2 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_image_5 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/home-automation-protocols.jpg\" width=\"1062\" height=\"518\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/home-automation-protocols.jpg 1062w, https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/home-automation-protocols-980x478.jpg 980w, https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/home-automation-protocols-480x234.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1062px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-1640\" title=\"home-automation-protocols\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_text_18 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p><span>Matter is on its way to conquer the smart home world (see further below) but personally I do not see the added value of matter when you run your own smart home server which by the way is the most safest and fastest way to create a network.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_7 et_pb_row et_block_row\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_15 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_19 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><ul>\n<li><span style=\"color: #2ea3f2; font-family: 'Share Tech Mono'; font-size: 28px;\">Placement and Equipment (declutter and show offs)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span>Proper placement of routers, access points, and smart hubs is essential to maximize network coverage. Consider the layout and size of your home when determining the placement of these devices. You don't want to see antennas sticking out in your living.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>Additionally, investing in high-quality equipment can significantly enhance network reliability.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_8 et_pb_row et_block_row\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_16 et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_2 et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_20 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Size_matters\"><\/span>Size matters<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The size of your smart home network matters. It can be a mix of Wifi and other technologies like Zigbee, Zwave, RF or Bluetooth but most frustrating are devices just too far away that they keep dropping out of the network and thus are unresponsive.<\/p>\n<p>To size your network you must have an idea of what devices you want to use and contol from your smart home network. Think about camera's, motion sensors, switches, lights, aircon's, thermostates and so on.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_column_17 et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_2 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_21 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<blockquote>\n<p><strong>Rule of thumb:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>You cannot mix networks into one network. Every network technology is in fact a stand-alone network!<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_text_22 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p><strong>Wow! What now?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The answer is the use of a software application like Home Assistant that binds all of these devices together and acts as the \"man in the middle\".<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_text_23 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>Have a look at the list of Home Assistant integrations <a href=\"https:\/\/www.home-assistant.io\/integrations\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Home Assistant integrations\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_9 et_pb_row et_block_row\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_18 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_24 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><ul>\n<li>Networks like Zigbee and Zwave can only have one controller. In other words, you cannot (in a simple way) have different Zigbee networks in your house communicating with each other.<\/li>\n<li>A wifi device cannot directly communicate with a Zigbee or other network technology<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_section_3 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section\"><div class=\"et_pb_row_10 et_pb_row et_block_row\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_19 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_25 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h2><\/h2>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_Matter\"><\/span>What is (the) Matter?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>In the coming years a new standard for the smart home will be implemented called Matter. It will take another few years but this standard eliminates the issue of smart devices in different networks not able to communicate. Matter also provides a enhanced solution for coverage based on Mesh technology.<\/p>\n<p>Matter has no real solution for \"man in the middle\" so that will remain the area where software applications like Home Assistant come in which by the way is fully compatible with Matter.<\/p>\n<p>So for now we have to be careful about what devices for what and how to extend coverage.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_11 et_pb_row et_block_row\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_20 et_pb_column et_pb_column_2_5 et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_26 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>Keep our fingers crossed that <span style=\"color: #ff6600;\">Matter will keep its promise<\/span>. You will find regular updates on the Matter project on this website.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_image_6 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/fingers-crossed.webp\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/fingers-crossed.webp 1440w, https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/fingers-crossed-1280x720.webp 1280w, https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/fingers-crossed-980x551.webp 980w, https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/fingers-crossed-480x270.webp 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) and (max-width: 1280px) 1280px, (min-width: 1281px) 1440px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-38\" title=\"fingers-crossed\" \/><\/span><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_column_21 et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_5 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_image_7 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/CSA-IOT-MATTER.jpg\" width=\"1238\" height=\"488\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/CSA-IOT-MATTER.jpg 1238w, https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/CSA-IOT-MATTER-980x386.jpg 980w, https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/CSA-IOT-MATTER-480x189.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1238px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-39\" title=\"CSA-IOT-MATTER\" \/><\/span><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_image_8 et_pb_image et_pb_module et_block_module\"><span class=\"et_pb_image_wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/CSA-IOT-MATTER-promise.jpg\" width=\"1077\" height=\"180\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/CSA-IOT-MATTER-promise.jpg 1077w, https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/CSA-IOT-MATTER-promise-980x164.jpg 980w, https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/12\/CSA-IOT-MATTER-promise-480x80.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) 1077px, 100vw\" class=\"wp-image-40\" title=\"CSA-IOT-MATTER-promise\" \/><\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_12 et_pb_row et_block_row\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_22 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_27 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p>All information about the Matter Project can be found <a href=\"https:\/\/csa-iot.org\/all-solutions\/matter\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Matter - Connectivity Standards Alliance\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_row_13 et_pb_row et_block_row\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_23 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_28 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h2><span><\/span><\/h2>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><span>Conclusion<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span>The design of a smart home goes beyond selecting the latest gadgets. It involves creating a robust network infrastructure that supports seamless communication between devices. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>Adequate network coverage ensures that your smart home operates efficiently, securely, and in a way that enhances your daily life. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>When planning your smart home, don't underestimate the importance of network coverage \u2013 it's the invisible backbone that makes the magic happen.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_section_4 et_pb_section et_section_regular et_block_section\"><div class=\"et_pb_row_14 et_pb_row et_block_row\"><div class=\"et_pb_column_24 et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et-last-child et_block_column et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_29 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module et_pb_text_align_center preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tags_used_in_this_article\"><\/span>Tags used in this article<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div><\/div><div class=\"et_pb_text_30 et_pb_text et_pb_bg_layout_light et_pb_module et_block_module preset--module--divi-text--default\"><div class=\"et_pb_text_inner\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/tag\/design\/\">design<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/tag\/installation\/\">installation<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/tag\/thread\/\">thread<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/tag\/wifi\/\">wifi<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/tag\/zigbee\/\">zigbee<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Designing your smart home is fun but can be challenging and that is why you will find everything about designing your smart home here.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":119,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[13,17,10,14,9],"class_list":["post-117","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog","tag-design","tag-installation","tag-thread","tag-wifi","tag-zigbee"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/117","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=117"}],"version-history":[{"count":72,"href":"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/117\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2745,"href":"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/117\/revisions\/2745"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/119"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=117"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=117"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.smartmakerhome.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=117"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}