KNX or wireless: which system is right for your Smart Home?

Thanks to modern technology, you can equip your Smart Home with countless functions to improve your energy efficiency, increase the security standards on your property, and live more comfortably all around. Any type of networked building technology relies either on a wired (KNX) or wireless system to deliver its high-tech functionality.

Both systems can be used to create a fully connected Smart Home that meets your personal needs. The differences between the two mainly lie in their installation and performance. To help you make a decision, here's an overview on the benefits that either option offers.

Gira KNX: The future-proof solution for cutting-edge homes

KNX is the globally recognised standard for wired building technology, which means that it offers the best guarantees in terms of future compatibility and flexibility. If you want to expand your Smart Home system at a later stage, you can combine KNX products and applications from different manufacturers and add new functions gradually, as and when they become available and relevant to you. KNX networks are very robust and offer exceptional performance. They can be installed in virtually any building – from a single family home or apartment to a large complex with multiple tenants.

KNX can also be used to take your Smart Home functionality outdoors. For example, you can use your network to automate your garden sprinkler system, configuring it to operate based on online weather data transmitted to the control system via an IP interface.

Advance planning for wired Smart Homes

One of the disadvantages of installing a high-performance KNX system is that the installation process involves quite a lot of work. The system requires a control cable to be routed beneath the surface of your walls with your power lines; this control cable transmits commands to lights, blinds, security systems and other KNX devices.

The system must be carefully planned before installation commences. Once all of the cables are in place, the technology concealed behind the walls is controlled using connected switches such as Gira touch sensors, various control devices and a control centre like the Gira HomeServer. Via these interfaces, you can also control your KNX Smart Home functions from your smartphone or tablet.

Gira eNet Smart Home: The quick and clean way to an intelligent home

The alternative to a hard-wired KNX installation is a wireless system that transmits commands without cables. Modern wireless solutions such as Gira eNet Smart Home enable you to connect your home without opening up the walls. In addition to switches, dimmers and actuators manufactured by Gira, you can also incorporate products from eNet partner brands, such as lights by Brumberg, into your home control system.

As commands are transmitted wirelessly, no major building work is required to install a wireless solution. You control your Smart Home via the Gira eNet Server, using a Wi-Fi connection on your mobile device. At home, you can install battery-operated wall and hand-held transmitters wherever you need them – without having to worry about a power supply. The wireless route enables you to reap the benefits of smart building technology in the shortest time, even in an old building or rented accommodation.

Wireless or KNX – home-owner or tenant?

Bearing all of this in mind, it would be easy to conclude that wireless systems are the best choice for retrofitting, while wired solutions are ideal for new builds. But it’s not that simple: If you want to install networked building technology in an existing building, your status as a home-owner or a tenant will also be a factor in your choice. As a property owner, you’re generally permitted to perform more extensive building work on your home. A KNX system – even when retrofitted – may help to increase the value of your property. Tenants, on the other hand, benefit from the fact that they can take their wireless Smart Home systems with them when they move house.

Data security: Reliable protection against digital intruders

There’s only one area we haven’t yet looked at in our comparison of Smart Home solutions: Which bus system will provide the highest levels of data security for your Smart Home? Regardless of whether you opt for a wireless or KNX solution, professional installation is an essential element of any secure IT network. You should always employ a professional system integrator to install your Smart Home technology; an expert installer will also be able to provide advice on the latest security standards.