Z-Wave

Z-Wave is a wireless communications protocol used primarily for residential and commercial building automation. It is a mesh network using low-energy radio waves to communicate from device to device, allowing for wireless control of smart home devices, such as smart lights, security systems, thermostats, sensors, smart door locks, and garage door openers. Z-Wave Long Range (ZWLR) is a sub-GHz wireless communication protocol designed to extend smart home connectivity, offering a range of up to 1.5 miles. It enables direct hub-to-device communication, supports up to 4,000 nodes per network, and is designed for large properties and commercial, industrial, and outdoor use. Both technologies are managed and owned by the Z-Wave Alliance, with over 200 companies involved in the technology within the organization. Like other protocols and systems aimed at the residential, commercial, MDU and building markets, a Z-Wave system can be controlled from a smart phone, tablet, or computer, and locally through a smart speaker, wireless key fob, or wall-mounted panel with a Z-Wave gateway or central control device serving as both the hub or controller. Z-Wave provides the application layer interoperability between home control systems of different manufacturers that are a part of its alliance. There is a growing number of interoperable Z-Wave products; over 1,700 in 2017, over 2,600 by 2019, over 4,000 by 2022, and over 4,500 by 2026.