Smart Home
Installation
SKILL.md
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.