For the various connected products in a smart home to communicate with each other, they need a network. While numerous providers use the Wi-Fi network, Hilo uses the Zigbee communication protocol. Here’s why.
1. Greater reach
Because of its mesh-type network, the Zigbee protocol offers greater reach and more stable coverage than Wi-Fi. In a mesh-type network each device is connected to another without a hierarchy. This lack of hierarchy is what extends the range of your connected devices. That means you don’t need to add repeaters like in a Wi-Fi network. Plus, for residential usage, the number of connected devices can be unlimited.
2. Energy savings
Zigbee uses much less energy than Wi-Fi. The battery life of your devices will therefore be much longer on Zigbee than on Wi-Fi. Result: Zigbee saves you energy and money and helps the environment by making it possible to use smaller batteries that last longer.
A logical option for a smart home, whose aim is to lower energy use!
3. Stronger security
Zigbee offers greater data security, both in the initial pairing of devices and during their use. In addition the Hilo hub is cable-connected to the modem to maximize safety.
4. Easier configuration
Zigbee offers network configuration and device pairing that are simpler and faster than on Wi-Fi. By using the Zigbee communication protocol, Hilo can easily connect to Hydro-Québec’s Zigbee smart meter, enabling you to access your consumption data in real time.