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What can keep working without internet?
SmartThings Edge moves supported hub-connected device commands and automations from cloud processing to the hub. SmartThings says Edge drivers run locally on the hub, which means compatible devices can have a local control path even when the home loses its internet connection. That applies only to supported device and driver combinations; it is not a promise that every SmartThings feature works offline.
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SmartThings describes Edge as moving processing for hub-connected commands and automations to the hub, where they operate locally within the home. See SmartThings’ Platform Transition FAQ and its Edge Drivers for New Devices FAQ.
Which devices depend on a hub or the cloud?
The connection type is a useful first clue. SmartThings says Zigbee, Z-Wave and LAN-connected devices require an enabled hub. Hub-connected devices may benefit from Edge local processing if they have a supported driver. See SmartThings Enabled Hubs and Devices in SmartThings.
#1 Best Overall
- Powered by SmartThings: Connect, monitor, and automate your home through the SmartThings app. Build a reliable, unified smart home using Samsung's proven ecosystem
- Matter + Zigbee Smart Home Hub: Supports the newest Matter standard plus Zigbee for lighting, sensors, plugs, switches, thermostats, and more - thousands of compatible devices. PLEASE NOTE: Z-Wave not supported
- Easy Setup with Wi-Fi or Ethernet: Get started in minutes using Wi-Fi or a wired Ethernet connection for apartments, houses, and expanding smart home systems - Z-Wave not supported
- Automations That Work for You: Create custom routines for security, lighting, comfort, and energy savings. Many local automations continue working even if your internet goes offline
- Wide Device Compatibility: Connect compatible smart devices from Aeotec and many other brands to build a unified system for lighting, voice control, energy management, and climate settings
Cloud-based devices have a different dependency: SmartThings’ app guide says they require a connection to the manufacturer’s service. If an internet outage prevents that connection, SmartThings may not be able to control the device through that service. A hub does not restore access to a manufacturer’s cloud. See Using the SmartThings App.
| What to check | What it means during an outage |
|---|---|
| Device connects through Zigbee, Z-Wave or LAN to a hub | Local operation may be possible with a supported Edge driver and a functioning hub. |
| Device is linked through a manufacturer’s cloud service | Control may fail if that service cannot be reached over the internet. |
| Device or integration’s driver is not confirmed to run locally | Do not assume commands or automations will continue offline. |
Will SmartThings routines still run?
Some routines may continue if their triggers, actions and devices are handled locally by supported hub-connected equipment. But SmartThings’ routine documentation does not say that all routines execute locally or remain available offline. A routine involving a cloud-linked device or another online service can lose part of its control path.
Rank #2
![SmartThings Hub 3rd Generation [GP-U999SJVLGDA] Smart Home Automation Hub Home Monitoring Smart Devices - Alexa Google Home Compatible - Zigbee, Z-Wave, Cloud to Cloud Protocols – White](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/21hChu0ounL._SL160_.jpg)
- Monitor and control compatible devices in your home using a single smartphone app for your phone
- Automate connected devices in your home and set them to turn on or off when doors are opened, people come and go, and much more
- Works with a wide range of smartphone compatible products
SmartThings documents routines triggered by time, day, device activity or manual action, but the trigger alone does not establish whether every action runs locally. Check the devices and integrations used by the specific routine. See Routines in SmartThings.
Internet outage, Wi-Fi failure and power loss are different
If only the provider’s internet connection is down, the router, hub and local devices may still be powered and communicating inside the home. That is the situation in which local Edge processing may help. If the router or local network fails, LAN-connected devices may become unreachable. If the hub loses power, it cannot process commands locally; a broader power failure can also disable devices and network equipment.
Rank #3
- 【Multi-Device Home Automation Hub】: Our Tuya Smart Gateway offers dual-protocol communication via Zigbee and Bluetooth Mesh. Seamlessly connect devices across different protocols to your 2.4GHz network, enabling comprehensive control from a single hub. Experience enhanced stability and intelligence compared to traditional WiFi systems.
- 【Unified Device Management】: Our smart ZigBee hub seamlessly integrates with up to 82 devices concurrently, spanning ZigBee temperature and humidity sensors, light switches, Bluetooth door locks, and Fingerbots. In ZigBee mode, it accommodates 32 devices, while Bluetooth mode supports 50, empowering you to craft a comprehensive smart home ecosystem.
- 【Type-C Interface Design】: Zigbee 3.0 Gateway Hub features a Type-C port design, eliminating the need for cables or batteries. Simply plug it into our customized Type-C port socket, switch, or USB-C adapter for power, ensuring a clutter-free home. Plus, enjoy added convenience with the included 19-inch Type-C cable.
- 【APP Remote Control & Voice Control】: Smart Zigbee gateway Bluetooth hub supports managing your devices through the Smart Life APP/Tuya Smart App anytime and anywhere; it also works with Alexa and Google Home, you can control your smart devices with simple voice commands and enjoy the convenience of hands-free voice.
- 【Tailored Scenes】: With the YIFAN Tuya Smart Gateway, customize trigger conditions to seamlessly link multiple devices, creating intricate scenes tailored to your needs. This powerful network bridge enables comprehensive smart home device integration, allowing you to orchestrate whole-house automation. For instance, set the scene for 6 pm to illuminate the Christmas tree lights, activate garden lights, and deactivate the lawn watering timer effortlessly.
These distinctions follow from SmartThings’ description of processing on the hub and its hub requirements for certain device connections; they are not a guarantee that a particular setup will work through any specific failure.
How to check your SmartThings setup
- Identify the connection path. In the SmartThings app, check the device’s details and determine whether it connects through a hub or through a linked manufacturer service. For Zigbee, Z-Wave and LAN devices, confirm that an enabled, compatible hub is in use.
- Check local-driver support. Find out whether the device uses a SmartThings Edge driver that runs on your hub. Confirm current compatibility for the hub model and device rather than relying on old model lists or transition dates.
- Review each important routine. Note its trigger, every device action and any cloud service, presence feature or voice-assistant integration it depends on. Local execution of one device action does not prove that the whole routine works offline.
- Test non-critical controls before you need them. If practical, briefly disconnect internet access while leaving the router, hub and devices powered, then check the specific controls you rely on. Restore service afterward and avoid testing safety-critical functions as a substitute for their normal safeguards.
Does adding a SmartThings hub solve the problem?
A compatible SmartThings-enabled hub is relevant if you have Zigbee, Z-Wave or LAN-connected devices that require one, or if you want local Edge processing for supported devices. It is not a universal offline fix: it cannot provide internet access to a manufacturer’s cloud service, and it cannot help if the hub or local equipment is down. Check device and hub compatibility before buying or configuring hardware.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- [Multi-Protocol Hub with Matter Bridge] The M3 is a versatile hub supporting Aqara Zigbee and Thread devices. It integrates third-party devices into the Aqara Home app. Supports advanced Matter bridge functionality, enabling Aqara-exclusive scenes and signals to sync with Matter ecosystems such as Home Assistant for seamless integration. Supports up to 127 Aqara Zigbee devices （** Not third-party Zigbee devices) and 127 Thread devices (Repeaters are needed).
- [Edge Compatibilities and Local Automations] The M3 serves as an Edge Hub, prioritizing local control and automation. Upon integration, it supersedes existing Aqara hubs, shifting the automations among them to local operation (Some cloud-based notifications still require internet). Upgrade-friendly, it supports migrating Zigbee devices from older Aqara hubs.
- [Smart IR Blaster with Feedback and Learning] The 360°IR blaster not only sends commands but also provides accurate status updates by detecting traditional remote use. It connects IR air conditioning units to Matter, functioning as an AC thermostat when paired with an Aqara Temperature and Humidity Sensor. (Note: Only one AC device can be exposed to Matter. Functionality may vary based on the Matter integration app. For Apple Home exposure, use Matter integration instead of HomeKit.)
- [Optimal Wired and Wireless Connectivity] Offering both wired and wireless solutions, the smart home hub M3 provides dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz) with advanced WPA3 security, and a Power over Ethernet (PoE) port. The addition of a USB-C port allows for mini-UPS and power bank connections, delivering unparalleled stability. (2A USB power adapter is not included. ) . Note: To ensure a stable connection, place the Hub M3 between 6 to 19 feet from the router.
- [Privacy-Focused with Encrypted Storage, Easy Setup and Versatile Placement] The M3 prioritizes privacy by excluding microphone or camera components. It boasts 8GB end-to-end encrypted local storage, for device lists, configuration parameters, and automation configuration data. Additionally, it includes a mount and screws for flexible placement on flat surfaces, walls, or ceilings. Magic Pair technology ensures effortless detection by the Aqara Home app upon power-up.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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