Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is the most familiar protocol because every home already has it. A Wi-Fi smart device connects directly to your router, and a companion app or integration ties it back to Home Assistant.

Strengths

• No extra hub required for most devices.
• High bandwidth suits cameras, doorbells, and other high-data devices.
• Wide compatibility with consumer routers and mesh systems.

Trade-offs

• Cloud dependence is the norm. Many Wi-Fi devices stop working when the manufacturer’s servers are down, even for local actions.
• Power draw is high compared with Zigbee, Z-Wave, or Thread. Battery-powered Wi-Fi sensors typically last weeks, not years.
• Network congestion can become a problem in larger installs with many Wi-Fi devices on the same band.

When Wi-Fi makes sense

Selora installations use Wi-Fi for cameras, video doorbells, network audio devices, and selected presence and air-quality sensors where the bandwidth and refresh rate justify the trade-offs. For simple battery-powered sensors, a Zigbee or Thread alternative is usually a better fit.