Zigbee Smart Home Network Explained

If you are exploring smart home automation, you will come across Zigbee. It is a low-power, wireless communication technology that allows smart devices to communicate with each other. What makes Zigbee special, It uses a mesh network, offering better coverage, reliability, and scalability than traditional Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connections.

What is a Zigbee Mesh Network

A Zigbee mesh network is a system where multiple smart devices connect to form a web of communication, allowing signals to travel efficiently across your home. Unlike Wi-Fi, which relies on a central router, Zigbee devices communicate directly with each other, passing messages along the network.

How Does Zigbee Work

Zigbee operates on the 2.4 GHz frequency band (like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth) but uses a different method of communication. It relies on three types of devices:

Coordinator (Zigbee Smart Hub) – The central controller that manages the Zigbee network. Examples: Moes Hub, Amazon Echo 4
Router (Repeater) – A mains powered devices that extends the network by passing messages between devices. Examples: Smart plugs, smart bulbs, smart switches.
End Device – Battery powered devices that connect to the network but do not relay messages. Examples: Sensors, buttons, remote controls.

Which Devices Act as Zigbee Repeaters

Nearly all mains powered Zigbee devices act as a repeater, helping to extend the network. These include:

Smart plugs
Smart bulbs
Smart switches

Battery powered devices do not act as repeaters since they enter low-power sleep modes to conserve energy.

How Many Devices Can Use a Zigbee Network

A Zigbee network can support hundreds of devices, more than a typical home Wi-Fi network or Bluetooth. However, the actual limit depends on the Zigbee smart hub:

A single Zigbee hub can connect directly to around 50 devices.
With repeaters, the network can expand to over 200 devices.

Does Zigbee Interfere with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth

Zigbee operates on the 2.4 GHz band, the same as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, so interference can occur. However, Zigbee minimises this by:

Using different channels within the 2.4 GHz band.
Sending small bursts of data rather than continuous transmission.
Using mesh networking to find alternative routes if interference occurs.

Tip: Keep your Zigbee hub at least a 1 meter away from your Wi-Fi router to help reduce the impact of interference

Does Zigbee Require Configuration

No, Zigbee automatically configures itself when new devices are added. The process is simple:

You add a new device through your smart home app.
The Zigbee hub detects and connects to it.
If the device is far from the hub, it automatically routes through a Zigbee repeater.

Is Zigbee Right for You

Zigbee is a reliable, low-power, and expandable option for smart home automation. It is ideal for controlling lights, sensors, and security devices, with the added benefit of a self-healing mesh network. If you want a robust smart home setup, Zigbee is a great choice.