Start here - a dependable route into smart homes

Build your smart home on a dependable foundation

You do not need to buy everything at once. Begin with a stable platform, connect a few devices, and create one automation that solves a real need. This route collects the guides you need in the order that makes the most sense.

A useful first milestone

Install Home Assistant, add one device, and create one simple automation. Only expand the setup when all three parts work reliably.

1. Choose your platform

   Decide how much maintenance you want to own. A dedicated Home Assistant Green or Raspberry Pi is straightforward; Proxmox suits a home server; Docker suits people who already operate containers.

2. Install Home Assistant

   Follow one installation route to completion and confirm that Home Assistant opens locally before adding extra integrations.

3. Choose one device protocol

   Zigbee is often a strong starting point for sensors and buttons. Wi-Fi can be practical for individual devices, while Matter and Thread need a little more planning.

4. Create your first automation

   Pick a small task with a clear trigger and action. It is easier to debug and gives you a pattern you can reuse.

5. Secure and back up the system

   Create automatic backups, protect remote access, and document key devices before the setup becomes larger.

6. Expand with a purpose

   Choose dashboards, energy, ESPHome or more advanced automations based on a need in your home — not simply because a device exists.

Your next six actions

1. Understand Home Assistant

Learn the platform and its main decisions in Getting started with Home Assistant.

2. Choose an installation

Compare Raspberry Pi, Proxmox and Docker.

3. Connect devices

Begin with Zigbee2MQTT, or learn about Wi-Fi devices and Thread & Matter.

4. Automate

Build your first automation and understand triggers, conditions and actions.

5. Protect the setup

Follow the backup and security guide before your home depends on the system.

6. Choose the next project

Continue with dashboard design, energy management or ESP32 & ESPHome.

When something fails

Change one thing at a time and inspect the current state before resetting or reinstalling. Use the troubleshooting guide to work systematically with logs, integrations and devices.

Next step: Open the Home Assistant introduction →