We generally like to make something as quick and easy to set up and use as possible.
Is it always a good decision?
About smart devices operating on a cloud-based system
Cloud services, also known as Cloud services, became widespread a few years ago.
The advantage of cloud services is that we don't need our own server for our data center, but rather the service provider provides it somewhere in the world.
The centers are mostly in Asia, China, but recently the servers have been divided into continents.
Certain services can only be accessed online, with an external internet connection. Almost every manufacturer, without exception, has a Cloud, which they partially share with users, in free and paid versions.
If someone uses a smart home system, they probably also have smart devices. Factory smart devices usually communicate with a Gateway or HUB, and the data goes through the Cloud service.
Advantages:
- They usually operate on the „plug and play” principle, so adding devices and getting them up and running is extremely easy.
- They can be accessed and controlled anywhere, anytime via their application interface, most likely also in the smart home system.
Disadvantages:
- It's no secret that service providers (primarily Chinese ones) are prone to spying, which is not very reassuring for the user.
- If the external internet connection is unavailable for some reason, the devices cannot be accessed.
- If the Cloud provider's server is unavailable, the devices cannot be accessed either (not so long ago, due to an error, they were down for several days).
- False reactions may occur.
- Reaction delays of several seconds are mostly minimal, but it is not uncommon.
The reason:
About cloud-based (LAN) devices:
Advantages:
- It only works locally, i.e. in LAN mode, no external internet connection is required.
- The connection is faster and more stable.
- The reaction time is much less.
- There is no false reaction.
- He is also able to perform more complex, independent tasks.
Disadvantages:
- It can mostly be done using the DIY, or "do it yourself" method (this is not necessarily a disadvantage), which can be time-consuming.
- They can only be accessed via a local network (but if the smart home system also has an external address, e.g. via DuckDNS, Nabu Casa, then this statement is not true).
Nowadays, some people sell ready-made „plug and play” cloud-free devices that require minimal configuration.
If you want to localize your devices yourself, replace the factory system (but then you will definitely lose Cloud access), then it is advisable to research Tasmota or ESPHome. If your device is equipped with an ESP8266 or ESP32 module, then it is almost certain that it can be solved with one of the open source FW (Firmware) mentioned above.
It's worth searching for your device on Tasmota or ESPHome, because they contain a lot of specific descriptions on how to change FW.
So is it a cloud or not a cloud?
Opinions on the topic of cloud vs. cloud-free are very divided in different groups.
When building my smart home system, I started installing the following devices:
- Sonoff Mini R2
- Sonoff POW R2
- Sonoff Dual R3
- Sonoff Zigbee Bridge+ Zigbee devices.
These devices communicate over WIFI, but also in Cloud mode (some also have LAN mode, but my experience is that Cloud cannot be turned off).
The initial joy quickly faded, as I increasingly experienced that my devices did not respond at all or responded with a delay. Since the expected basic functions did not work stably, I was strongly encouraged to get rid of the Cloud service, and also the manufacturer's original system.
Since I replaced my WIFI devices with the Tasmota/ESPHome system, the systems have been working fast, securely, and stably. I have not regretted the change at all.
The decision is in your hands.
After all this, how do you decide? Will you stick with the quick and easy use, or will you rather replace it with your own system? Come for a free consultation and we will help you choose!