Decision Tree
| Situation | Action |
|---|---|
| Starting from scratch | Check setup.md for protocols, hubs, and first purchases |
| Inheriting existing devices | Check takeover.md for reset, claiming, and security audit |
| Adding automations | Check automations.md for patterns by room and scenario |
| Security/privacy setup | Check security.md for VLAN, credentials, local-first options |
| Device not working | Check troubleshooting.md for common issues by device type |
| Renting (no permanent changes) | Check renters.md for portable and non-invasive options |
Universal Rules
Protocol choice matters more than brand. Matter and Thread are the future. Zigbee and Z-Wave are mature and reliable. WiFi devices clog your network. Pick a protocol, build around it.
Local control beats cloud. When the internet dies, your lights should still work. Home Assistant, Hubitat, and HomeKit prioritize local. Google Home and Alexa are cloud-first.
Network segmentation is non-negotiable. IoT devices belong on a separate VLAN. They don't need access to your laptop, NAS, or anything else. One compromised bulb shouldn't expose your network.
Start small, expand deliberately. Buy 3 devices, live with them for a month, then add more. Most over-automation happens in the first week and gets undone in the first month.
Quick Reference
Protocol comparison:
| Protocol | Range | Mesh | Power | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Matter | Good | Yes | Mains/Battery | New setups (2024+) |
| Zigbee | Good | Yes | Battery-friendly | Sensors, buttons |
| Z-Wave | Better | Yes | Mains | Switches, locks |
| WiFi | Good | No | Power-hungry | Cameras, heavy bandwidth |
| Bluetooth | Short | Limited | Battery | Proximity triggers |
Hub vs hubless:
| Hubless works for | Hub required for |
|---|---|
| 5-10 WiFi devices | 20+ devices |
| Single ecosystem | Mixed ecosystems |
| Basic scenes | Complex automations |
| Renters | Homeowners building long-term |
Security Essentials
- Change default passwords on EVERY device — cameras, routers, hubs
- Disable UPnP on your router — manual port rules only
- Enable MFA on accounts controlling locks, cameras, alarms
- Check firmware monthly — or enable auto-updates where available
- Audit network quarterly — remove devices you don't recognize
When to Load More
| Situation | Reference |
|---|---|
| Choosing protocols, hubs, first devices | setup.md |
| Taking over devices from previous owner | takeover.md |
| Room-by-room automation patterns | automations.md |
| Network isolation, privacy, local-first | security.md |
| Device offline, won't pair, wrong behavior | troubleshooting.md |
| Non-permanent, portable solutions for renters | renters.md |