Smart homes are increasingly becoming popular, and with the advancement of technology, there have been various terms used to describe different components of a smart home ecosystem. Some people may confuse the jargon, but understanding these terms is essential for setting up and managing a smart home effectively.
Today, we will break down some common jargon used in smart homes, including hub, gateway, bridge, and more.
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Hub![]()
A hub is the central point of control for all devices in a smart home. It acts as a communication gateway between different devices and allows them to communicate.
The hub usually connects to the internet through Wi-Fi or Ethernet, and can be controlled through a smartphone app or voice commands. Examples of smart home hubs include Amazon Echo, Google Home, and Samsung SmartThings.
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Gateway![]()
A gateway in a smart home is similar to a hub, but it typically refers to the device that connects directly to the internet. It acts as the bridge between external networks (such as the internet) and internal devices within the smart home network.
Gateways can also provide additional security features to protect the smart home network from external threats. A gateway differs from a hub in a way that it merely transmits signals to receiving devices and connects to the hub or the cloud for processing logic.
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Bridge![]()
A bridge is a device that connects two different networks. In a smart home context, it is used to connect devices that use different communication protocols.
For example, if you have a smart light bulb that uses Bluetooth and a smart thermostat that uses Wi-Fi, a bridge can connect these devices and allow them to communicate.
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Smart Speakers
Smart speakers are voice-enabled devices that act as a control centre for the smart home. They usually come with built-in virtual assistants (such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant) and can be used to control various smart home devices through voice commands.
In addition to controlling devices, smart speakers also have features such as playing music, setting reminders, and providing information.
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Smart Plugs
Smart plugs are small devices that can be plugged into traditional electrical outlets and make any device “smart.” They usually have Wi-Fi connectivity and can be controlled through a smartphone app.
With smart plugs, you can turn on or off appliances remotely, set schedules for them to turn on or off, and monitor their energy usage.
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Takeaway
Understanding these jargon terms is essential for setting up and managing a smart home. With the right devices and terminology, you can create a seamless and efficient smart home ecosystem that makes your life easier.
As technology continues to advance, we can expect more jargon to emerge in the world of smart homes. With this knowledge, you can stay ahead of the curve and fully utilise the benefits of a smart home.
