Main vs. IoT vs. Guest Networks and Smart Home Functions
In order to figure out how to best setup my home network (I have a fairly large home network with around 100 devices, many of which are used for smart home functions), I am trying to understand better how the various networks function on the Deco XE75 Pro so I can make some design determinations. Based on searches and documentation I found, I think this is how each network functions.
- Main Network
- By default, no restrictions on device communications for members of the Main Wireless network or connected wired network.
- There is only manual isolation of individual devices.
- IoT Network
- Allows all devices on the IoT Network to communicate with one another as well as the Internet. Devices on the IoT network cannot communicate with the Main Wireless network.
- There is network isolation, but not device isolation.
- Guest Network
- Allows all devices on the Guest Network to communicate to the Internet. Devices cannot communicate with each other or with the other wireless networks.
- There is network isolation and device isolation.
I have seen some conflicting information on the IoT Network in that some have said there is communication allowed between the Main Network and the IoT network, while others said there is isolation. So, can someone confirm exactly how it works?
The other thing is that naturally, any wired devices appear to be part of the Main Network. This creates a tricky configuration when dealing with a wired IoT device. Deciding of where to place things gets cloudy quickly.
- Alexa/Voice devices - Main Network or IoT Network? Used to issue voice commands for smart home functions, control TVs, etc.
- Smart TVs/Roku/Firestick devices - Main Network or IoT Network? Some are wired, some are wireless.
- Smart Home Devices (light bulb, light switches, plugs) - IoT Network? Isolation issues if voice control devices are not on IoT Network?
- Smart Home Gateways - Some are wired (SmartThings, Home Assistant, HUE) and would be part of the Main Network. While SmartThings and HUE are cloud-based, a wired Home Assistant device would directly communicate on the Home Network. Which network should wireless versions go (cloud-based vs. local)?
While my goal would be to use the IoT for Smart Home devices, to make everything work right it seems that everything would have to be on the Main Network. If there is true network isolation between the Main Network and the IoT Network, I wish there was an option to allow individual devices to communicate between those networks. It would also be nice if you could designate one of the wired ports to be part of the IoT network.
Any feedback from others that have tackled smart home integration and IoT network use?