Tools, guides, and references I use and recommend for building a reliable smart home network.

Network Planning

• WiFi Analyzer (Android) – scan your WiFi channels, find interference
• iPerf3 – test actual throughput between devices on your network
• Fing – discover every device on your network

Smart Home Platforms

• Home Assistant – the gold standard for local automation. Steep learning curve, but worth it
• Zigbee2MQTT – connect Zigbee devices without vendor hubs
• Z-Wave JS – Z-Wave integration for Home Assistant
• Node-RED – visual automation flows for complex scenarios

Hardware I Recommend

• Sonoff Zigbee 3.0 USB Dongle Plus – best budget Zigbee coordinator
• Zooz Z-Wave 800 Series Stick – reliable Z-Wave controller
• Intel N100 Mini PC – perfect Home Assistant server
• TP-Link Deco or UniFi – mesh WiFi depending on budget