Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does the system work without Internet access?
Yes, however, internet connection is required to update the software, access it from outside your local network via VPN and install updates.
The system does not require any Internet access to function within your local network, so in case of a temporary loss of internet connection, it will continue to operate as normal. However, if you rely on remote access via VPN, you will not be able to access the application from outside your local network until the internet connection is restored.
2. Which communication protocols are supported?
The system supports MQTT to connect with your devices.
3. How is my data protected against unauthorized access?
Sparrow Home application does not store any data in the cloud. All data is stored locally on your server, and you have full control over it. The system uses JWT for authentication and supports secure communication protocols to protect your data. It is recommended to use a VPN for remote access and to keep your server's software up to date with the latest security patches. Additionally, consider implementing strong passwords to increase security.
4. What happens to the system in case of a power outage?
In the event of a power outage, the system will temporarily lose power and become non-operational. However, once power is restored, the system should automatically restart and resume normal operation without any data loss, as all data is stored locally on your server. To mitigate the impact of power outages, it is recommended to use an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) to keep your server running during short-term outages and prevent data corruption. Some Zigbee devices have built-in behavior to handle power outages, such as retaining their last state or automatically reconnecting to the network once power is restored. However, this behavior can vary depending on the specific devices you are using.
5. Can I integrate devices from different manufacturers?
Yes, the system supports a wide range of Zigbee devices from various manufacturers. The compatibility depends on the Zigbee adapter you are using and the devices you want to integrate. It is recommended to check the compatibility list of your Zigbee adapter and ensure that the devices you want to use are supported. You can check the list of supported devices on the Zigbee2MQTT website: https://www.zigbee2mqtt.io/supported-devices/
6. How do I add a new device to an existing network?
Adding a new device to an existing network is a simple process. To connect a new device to the network, simply follow * this guide.*
7. Is voice control available (e.g., via Google Assistant or Alexa)?
At the moment, the system does not support voice control.
8. Where are logs and sensor data stored?
All data is stored locally on your server. You can access the logs by accessing the docker container's logs:
docker logs docker-backend-1
9. How is the system updated?
To ensure stability of your server, the system does not automatically update the software. To update it, you need to pull the latest docker images and restart the containers. Follow this instruction to update your system.
10. Does the system allow creating advanced scenarios (automation) without programming skills?
Yes, the system allows you to create advanced scenarios (automation) without any programming knowledge. Please check the documentation for more information.