I’d like to control all my lighting without any data being sent to central servers or requiring a smartphone. Ideally, data would stay on the home network or bypass it entirely. Does such a solution exist? Smart TRVs with similar features would also be useful.
Explore Z-wave, Zigbee, or Thread. Pair these with home automation systems like Hubitat, OpenHAB, or Home Assistant. Hubitat has Zigbee and Z-wave built in, while OpenHAB offers advanced capabilities with a steep learning curve. Home Assistant strikes a balance and is user-friendly for adding devices and setting automations.
@Andre
This is the best solution.
@Andre
Hubitat is quick to set up, and its Rule Machine or Webcore app enables intuitive automations. Home Assistant takes longer to configure, especially with hardware like a Raspberry Pi. Hubitat’s simplicity and robust community support are significant advantages.
@Jake
I used Hubitat C7 but found it limited for complex tasks like comparing sensor data. Home Assistant’s flexibility suits my needs better, though both platforms have their pros and cons.
Are you concerned that Philips knows when you turn your lights on and off?
Use Philips Hue bulbs but block their servers at the router level. Use their remote switches for control.
Connect Philips Hue bulbs directly to Home Assistant using Zigbee. This bypasses the need for a Hue bridge and keeps everything local.
ethan said:
Connect Philips Hue bulbs directly to Home Assistant using Zigbee. This bypasses the need for a Hue bridge and keeps everything local.
I’ve done this, and it works perfectly. All devices stay local.
Try Tasmota. It replaces the firmware on compatible devices (like Sonoff), allowing full local control via WiFi. I use it with a custom local web page for device management, but you can integrate it with a hub if preferred.
@Muhammad
Z-wave or Zigbee devices are a better choice for local control. Flashing Tasmota firmware is more useful for repurposing existing IoT devices rather than new purchases.
Apple HomeKit handles local control natively. Matter devices will as well. I block my IoT devices at the router level, and they still work fine.
Padukone said:
Apple HomeKit handles local control natively. Matter devices will as well. I block my IoT devices at the router level, and they still work fine.
IoT devices typically require internet for cloud-based commands unless flashed for local use. How are they working without internet?
@Jake
Research how Apple HomeKit and Matter work. They don’t rely on cloud servers.
Why worry about tracking if you use a smartphone or the internet? You’re already being monitored.
Jarrod said:
Why worry about tracking if you use a smartphone or the internet? You’re already being monitored.
I strive for open-source hardware and software wherever possible. I’m seeking solutions, not judgment.
@Clara
Total privacy isn’t feasible in today’s world, but good luck.