Choosing the right smart home automation hub can significantly simplify managing your connected devices. The Aeotec Smart Home Hub stands out as the overall best due to its robust Z-Wave, Zigbee, and Matter support, offering flexible compatibility. For those seeking a more integrated voice control experience, the Amazon Echo Hub provides a user-friendly panel with Alexa built-in, though it comes with limited protocol support. The tradeoffs in this category often revolve around device compatibility, ease of setup, and whether you prefer local control or cloud-dependent systems. Keep reading to see how these options compare and find the perfect hub for your smart home needs.
Key Takeaways
- Multi-protocol support, especially Z-Wave, Zigbee, and Matter, is essential for broad device compatibility.
- Local control capabilities reduce reliance on internet stability and enhance privacy, which is prioritized by hubs like Hubitat Elevation.
- User-friendly interfaces and voice assistant integrations significantly impact ease of use, especially for beginners.
- Price varies widely, with premium hubs offering more features but at a higher cost—value depends on your specific setup.
- Compatibility with existing smart assistants and ecosystems influences long-term satisfaction and expansion flexibility.
| Aeotec Smart Home Hub with Z-Wave, Zigbee, and Matter Compatibility for Alexa & Google Assistant |  | Best Overall Smart Home Hub | Connectivity Technology: Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Z-Wave, Zigbee, Matter | Control Methods: App (SmartThings), Voice (Alexa/Google Assistant) | Weight: 1.1 Pounds | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Homey Pro Smart Hub for Home Automation with Z-Wave Plus, Zigbee, Wi-Fi, BLE, Infrared, Matter & Thread |  | Best for Large, Complex Ecosystems | Supported Technologies: Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Z-Wave Plus, BLE, Infrared, Matter, Thread | Device Compatibility: 50,000+ products from 1,000+ brands | RAM: Double the RAM of previous versions | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Philips Hue Bridge Smart Lighting Hub |  | Best for Smart Lighting Enthusiasts | Technology: Zigbee | Max Lights/Accessories: 50 | Unit Count: 1.0 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Aqara Smart Hub M200 – Multi-Protocol Matter Controller with Thread, Zigbee, and PoE Support |  | Best for Wired, Reliable Connectivity | Dimensions: 3.94 x 3.94 x 1.22 inches | Weight: 4.6 ounces | Supported Protocols: Matter, Thread, Zigbee 3.0, Bluetooth LE, Wi-Fi | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Hubitat Elevation C-8 Pro Smart Home Hub with Matter 1.5, Z-Wave 800 LR, Zigbee 3.0 & Bluetooth – Local Control |  | Best for Tech-Savvy Users Desiring Local Control | Supported Protocols: Matter 1.5, Z-Wave 800 LR, Zigbee 3.0, Bluetooth | Compatibility: Ring, Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Home | Control Type: Local (No Cloud) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Amazon Echo Hub, 8” Smart Home Control Panel for Alexa |  | Best Overall Smart Home Control Panel for Alexa | Display: 8” touch screen (1280 x 800 resolution) | Power Supply: 12.5W adapter with 6 ft cord | Compatibility: WiFi, Bluetooth LE, Zigbee, Thread, Matter devices | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Amazon Echo Hub 8” Smart Home Control Panel for Alexa+ |  | Best for Customizable Smart Home Dashboards | Display: 8” touch screen (1280 x 800 resolution) | Power Requirements: USB-C PD compatible (5V/2.4A and 9V/3A) | Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Matter, Sidewalk, Thread | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Home Assistant Green Smart Home Hub |  | Best for Privacy-Focused Advanced Automation | Processor: Quad-core | Storage: 32GB | RAM: 4GB | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Aqara Smart Home Hub M3 – Multi-Protocol Matter Controller with Thread, Zigbee, and Wi-Fi |  | Best for Cross-Platform Compatibility with Matter | Brand: Aqara | Model: HM-G01E | Supported Protocols: Matter, Thread, Zigbee 3.0, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz), IR | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Aqara Smart Hub M100 – Multi-Protocol Home Automation Controller |  | Best Budget Multi-Protocol Hub for Aqara Devices | Compatibility: Aqara Zigbee, Thread, Apple HomeKit, Alexa | Wi-Fi: 2.4GHz Wi-Fi 6 (WPA3) | Max Devices Supported: 20 Zigbee + 20 Thread | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Aeotec Smart Home Hub with Z-Wave, Zigbee, and Matter Compatibility for Alexa & Google Assistant
This hub stands out for its extensive compatibility, supporting Z-Wave, Zigbee, Matter, and Wi-Fi, which makes it a versatile choice for integrating a wide range of devices. Its local processing speeds up automations, especially compared to cloud-dependent options like the Hubitat Elevation C-8 Pro. The setup is straightforward via Wi-Fi or Ethernet, but Z-Wave Plus support is limited to the newer V3 model, and at 1.1 pounds, it can feel bulkier on a shelf. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for users seeking a reliable, multi-protocol hub that simplifies device management without sacrificing speed.
Pros:- Supports Z-Wave, Zigbee, Matter, and Wi-Fi for maximum device compatibility
- Local automation processing ensures fast response times
- Easy setup via Wi-Fi or Ethernet
Cons:- Z-Wave Plus support limited to the V3 model, which may require an upgrade
- Heavier and bulkier than some compact hubs
Best for: Homeowners looking for a plug-and-play hub with broad compatibility and quick automations.
Not ideal for: Users who prefer ultra-compact setups or only need basic Zigbee control, as the bulk and complexity may be overkill.
- Connectivity Technology:Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Z-Wave, Zigbee, Matter
- Control Methods:App (SmartThings), Voice (Alexa/Google Assistant)
- Weight:1.1 Pounds
- Compatibility:Matter, SmartThings, Z-Wave Plus (V3), Zigbee, Wi-Fi
- Setup Options:Wi-Fi or Ethernet
Bottom line: This hub is ideal for users who want a robust, multi-protocol device with fast local automation processing.
Homey Pro Smart Hub for Home Automation with Z-Wave Plus, Zigbee, Wi-Fi, BLE, Infrared, Matter & Thread
The Homey Pro excels at unifying over 50,000 devices from more than 1,000 brands through seven different technologies, making it a powerhouse for advanced users managing complex smart homes. Its local-first architecture rivals the Hubitat Elevation C-8 Pro by offering privacy-focused automation, but its setup can be daunting for those unfamiliar with smart home ecosystems. Unlike the Aqara Hub M200, it supports a broader range of devices, including infrared and Bluetooth, but may face reliability questions due to its newer status. This makes it a smart choice for technically savvy users who want a single, comprehensive control point.
Pros:- Supports seven smart home protocols including Thread and Infrared
- Manages over 50,000 devices across 1,000+ brands
- Local processing for data privacy and faster automations
Cons:- Setup complexity may challenge less experienced users
- Limited long-term reliability data due to newer market presence
Best for: Tech-savvy smart home enthusiasts with large device collections needing extensive compatibility.
Not ideal for: Beginners or users with smaller setups, as the extensive features and complex setup could be overwhelming.
- Supported Technologies:Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Z-Wave Plus, BLE, Infrared, Matter, Thread
- Device Compatibility:50,000+ products from 1,000+ brands
- RAM:Double the RAM of previous versions
Bottom line: This hub is best suited for users with large, diverse ecosystems who need extensive device support and local automation.
Philips Hue Bridge Smart Lighting Hub
The Philips Hue Bridge is a dedicated Zigbee hub optimized for lighting, supporting up to 50 Hue lights and accessories. While it’s limited to lighting products, its Zigbee connection is highly reliable and doesn’t depend on Wi-Fi, providing stable out-of-home control via the Hue app. Compared to the Aqara Hub M200, which supports multiple protocols, the Hue Bridge is more specialized, offering seamless media-sync and advanced lighting features. However, its device limit and need for a separate Hue app may restrict scalability for broader smart home integrations.
Pros:- Reliable Zigbee connection independent of Wi-Fi
- Enables out-of-home control via Hue app
- Matter-certified for cross-platform compatibility
Cons:- Limited to 50 lights/accessories per bridge
- Requires separate Hue app for setup and control
Best for: Homeowners focused on advanced lighting control and media synchronization.
Not ideal for: Those wanting a multi-protocol hub or managing a broad range of device types beyond lighting.
- Technology:Zigbee
- Max Lights/Accessories:50
- Unit Count:1.0
Bottom line: Perfect for lighting aficionados seeking reliable Zigbee control with media features, but not suited for multi-protocol or large device ecosystems.
Aqara Smart Hub M200 – Multi-Protocol Matter Controller with Thread, Zigbee, and PoE Support
The Aqara Hub M200 offers multi-protocol support, including Matter, Thread, Zigbee, and Wi-Fi, making it versatile for wired and wireless setups. Its PoE support ensures stable, wired connectivity crucial for large homes or environments with Wi-Fi interference, unlike the Hubitat Elevation C-8 Pro, which relies solely on Wi-Fi or Zigbee. While it supports up to 40 Zigbee and 40 Thread devices, its lack of third-party Zigbee device compatibility limits flexibility. This hub is ideal for users who prioritize wired stability and local automation but are comfortable with a somewhat limited device ecosystem.
Pros:- Supports Matter, Thread, Zigbee, and Wi-Fi for flexible connectivity
- PoE support enables wired, stable connection
- Local automation for privacy and speed
Cons:- Limited to 40 Zigbee and 40 Thread devices each
- No third-party Zigbee device support
Best for: Homeowners needing reliable, wired connection for a sizable smart home with Thread and Zigbee devices.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with extensive third-party Zigbee devices, due to compatibility limitations.
- Dimensions:3.94 x 3.94 x 1.22 inches
- Weight:4.6 ounces
- Supported Protocols:Matter, Thread, Zigbee 3.0, Bluetooth LE, Wi-Fi
- Max Devices:Up to 40 Zigbee + 40 Thread
Bottom line: This hub is well-suited for users seeking a wired, multi-protocol solution with local automation, especially in interference-prone environments.
Hubitat Elevation C-8 Pro Smart Home Hub with Matter 1.5, Z-Wave 800 LR, Zigbee 3.0 & Bluetooth – Local Control
The Hubitat Elevation C-8 Pro emphasizes local control, supporting Matter 1.5, Z-Wave 800 LR, Zigbee 3.0, and Bluetooth, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer offline automation. Its support for popular platforms like Ring, Alexa, and Apple HomeKit offers broad compatibility, similar to the Hub (B08TWDNQ5Q), but it requires more technical know-how to set up and manage. The external high-performance antennas ensure strong signals across large homes, but initial configuration with automatic updates can be complex for beginners. This device is ideal for those prioritizing privacy and local automation over cloud reliance.
Pros:- Operates completely locally without internet reliance
- Supports multiple protocols including Matter, Z-Wave, Zigbee, and Bluetooth
- High-performance external antennas for large-area coverage
Cons:- Requires technical expertise for initial setup
- Automatic updates and restarts during setup may be disruptive
Best for: Experienced users who want a robust, local-only hub with broad protocol support and no cloud dependency.
Not ideal for: Beginners or users seeking a simple, plug-and-play experience with minimal setup.
- Supported Protocols:Matter 1.5, Z-Wave 800 LR, Zigbee 3.0, Bluetooth
- Compatibility:Ring, Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Home
- Control Type:Local (No Cloud)
- Antenna Type:High-performance external antennas
- Device Support:1,000+ devices across 100+ brands
Bottom line: This hub is tailored for tech-savvy users who want full local control and broad protocol support without cloud dependence.
Amazon Echo Hub, 8” Smart Home Control Panel for Alexa
This certified refurbished Amazon Echo Hub stands out for its comprehensive control over thousands of Alexa-compatible devices, making it a versatile centerpiece for Alexa-centric homes. Its 8-inch touchscreen provides quick access to device controls, while built-in support for WiFi, Zigbee, Thread, and Matter ensures broad compatibility. Compared with the Home Assistant Green, it offers a more user-friendly setup and cloud-based integration, but sacrifices some privacy and customization flexibility. The device’s privacy features, like the mic off button, add reassurance for security-conscious users. However, wall mounting requires an electric drill, and some accessories are sold separately, which can be inconvenient. Best suited for users deeply invested in Alexa and seeking an all-in-one control panel with straightforward setup.
Pros:- Controls thousands of Alexa-compatible smart home devices
- Built-in privacy controls with mic off button
- Supports multiple connectivity protocols (WiFi, Zigbee, Matter)
Cons:- Requires electric drill for wall mounting
- Some accessories like stand sold separately
- Not portable or handheld
Best for: Homes with existing Alexa ecosystems seeking a centralized, easy-to-use hub
Not ideal for: Tech-savvy users who prefer local control and extensive customization—this relies heavily on cloud services
- Display:8” touch screen (1280 x 800 resolution)
- Power Supply:12.5W adapter with 6 ft cord
- Compatibility:WiFi, Bluetooth LE, Zigbee, Thread, Matter devices
- Security Features:Mic off button, privacy controls
- Mounting Options:Wall mount (drill required) or table-top stand (sold separately)
Bottom line: This pick makes the most sense for Alexa-focused users who want a reliable, all-in-one control panel with minimal fuss.
Amazon Echo Hub 8” Smart Home Control Panel for Alexa+
This version of the Amazon Echo Hub enhances control with customizable dashboards, making it ideal for users who want tailored views of their smart home. Its 8-inch touchscreen supports device management, camera feeds, and home security controls, similar to the standard model, but with added flexibility for personalization. Compared with the Home Assistant Green, it offers a more integrated Alexa experience but relies more on cloud services and requires additional accessories for optimal installation—like a PoE adapter and mounting hardware. Its PIR and ambient light sensors can automate scenes based on activity and lighting conditions. The device’s need for wall mounting via drilling might deter those seeking a portable solution. Best suited for Alexa users who want a visually customizable control panel integrated into their smart home ecosystem.
Pros:- Highly customizable dashboard for device and camera management
- Compatible with thousands of devices across multiple protocols
- Includes home security arming/disarming features
Cons:- Requires additional accessories for full installation
- No Bluetooth HFP support limits hands-free calling
- Installation involves drilling for wall mounting
Best for: Homeowners with existing Alexa devices wanting a personalized control dashboard
Not ideal for: Users seeking a plug-and-play, portable hub or those preferring local automation without extensive setup
- Display:8” touch screen (1280 x 800 resolution)
- Power Requirements:USB-C PD compatible (5V/2.4A and 9V/3A)
- Connectivity:WiFi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Matter, Sidewalk, Thread
- Sensors:Passive infrared (PIR), ambient light sensor
- Included Items:Echo Hub, power adapter, 6 ft cord, wall mount hardware
Bottom line: Ideal for Alexa enthusiasts wanting a flexible, customizable control panel with integrated security features.
Home Assistant Green Smart Home Hub
The Home Assistant Green offers a compelling choice for those prioritizing local control and data privacy. Its fanless design and energy-efficient operation make it suitable for always-on automation, with a robust quad-core processor and 32GB of storage supporting complex setups. Unlike options that depend on cloud services, it keeps all automation data local, appealing to security-conscious users. Compared with Aqara’s hubs, it provides a more flexible automation environment but requires familiarity with Home Assistant’s platform. Setup is straightforward with included accessories, yet it lacks Wi-Fi, relying solely on Ethernet, which might limit placement options. Its learning curve is steeper, making it better suited for experienced users. Best suited for DIY enthusiasts and smart home users wanting full control and privacy.
Pros:- Supported directly by Home Assistant developers
- Local automation ensures privacy and reliability
- Energy-efficient with low power consumption
Cons:- Requires Ethernet connection, no Wi-Fi support
- Limited storage for extensive automations
- Steeper learning curve for customization
Best for: Tech-savvy users comfortable with Home Assistant and local automation
Not ideal for: Beginners or those looking for quick, Wi-Fi-based plug-and-play solutions
- Processor:Quad-core
- Storage:32GB
- RAM:4GB
- Power Consumption:a couple of watts
- Connectivity:Ethernet, USB (Z-Wave/Zigbee/Thread expandable)
Bottom line: A smart choice for experienced users prioritizing privacy, local control, and advanced automation capabilities.
Aqara Smart Home Hub M3 – Multi-Protocol Matter Controller with Thread, Zigbee, and Wi-Fi
The Aqara Smart Home Hub M3 excels in supporting the emerging Matter ecosystem, making it a strong choice for users seeking a multi-protocol, cross-platform device. Its support for Thread, Zigbee 3.0, Wi-Fi, and IR, combined with local encrypted storage, enables seamless integration with third-party devices and traditional remote controls. Compared to the Aqara M100, it offers broader protocol support, including Thread and IR, but its limited 12-month warranty and reliance on Aqara-specific devices may restrict flexibility. The dual-band Wi-Fi and PoE options provide reliable connectivity, yet the hub’s compatibility is primarily with Aqara devices, which could be a concern for those wanting broader third-party device support. This hub is best for users invested in or planning to adopt the Matter standard with Aqara devices.
Pros:- Supports Matter ecosystem for cross-platform integration
- Local automation reduces reliance on cloud services
- Dual-band Wi-Fi and PoE ensure stable connectivity
Cons:- Shorter 12-month warranty compared to industry standards
- Limited to Aqara Zigbee devices (not third-party)
- USB power adapter not included
Best for: Homeowners committed to the Matter ecosystem and Aqara device users
Not ideal for: Users seeking a universal hub for third-party Zigbee or Z-Wave devices outside Aqara’s ecosystem
- Brand:Aqara
- Model:HM-G01E
- Supported Protocols:Matter, Thread, Zigbee 3.0, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz), IR
- Storage:8GB encrypted local storage
- Ports:PoE, USB-C
Bottom line: A solid choice for users focused on Matter and Aqara device compatibility, valuing local automation and stable connectivity.
Aqara Smart Hub M100 – Multi-Protocol Home Automation Controller
The Aqara Smart Hub M100 offers a reliable, budget-friendly solution for local automation with Zigbee and Thread support. Its compatibility with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and other ecosystems makes it a versatile bridge for Aqara devices. Compared with the Aqara M3, it supports fewer protocols but is simpler to set up and manage, making it ideal for smaller or less complex smart homes. The hub’s Wi-Fi 6 with WPA3 security ensures fast, secure connections, but limited device support per protocol and the need for a specific 5V power adapter might restrict flexibility. Its coverage area of 1,500-2,000 sq ft suits smaller to medium homes. Best suited for budget-conscious users who primarily use Aqara Zigbee and Thread devices with local automation needs.
Pros:- Supports Zigbee, Thread, and Matter for cross-platform use
- Local automation enhances reliability
- Wi-Fi 6 with WPA3 security for fast, secure connections
Cons:- Requires specific 5V power adapter (not included)
- Limited to 20 devices per protocol
- Placement within 6-19 feet of router for best performance
Best for: Users seeking a cost-effective, multi-protocol Aqara hub for small to medium homes
Not ideal for: Enthusiasts wanting a broader ecosystem compatibility or extensive device capacity
- Compatibility:Aqara Zigbee, Thread, Apple HomeKit, Alexa
- Wi-Fi:2.4GHz Wi-Fi 6 (WPA3)
- Max Devices Supported:20 Zigbee + 20 Thread
- Power Input:5V⎓0.5A (USB-A, not included)
- Coverage Area:1,500-2,000 sq ft
Bottom line: A practical, affordable hub for Aqara users focused on local automation within a smaller home environment.
How We Picked
These smart home hubs were evaluated based on compatibility breadth, build quality, ease of installation, user interface, and future-proofing with standards like Matter support. We prioritized products that support multiple protocols such as Z-Wave, Zigbee, and Wi-Fi, ensuring flexibility in device integration. Local control features were also a key factor, as they offer faster response times and increased privacy. Price-to-performance ratio was considered to identify options that deliver value without unnecessary complexity, helping readers find solutions suited to both beginners and advanced users. Our ranking reflects a balance of versatility, reliability, and user experience.Factors to Consider When Choosing Smart Home Automation Hubs
Selecting the right smart home automation hub involves understanding several key factors that influence compatibility, usability, and future growth. A good hub should support multiple protocols, offer easy setup, and integrate seamlessly with your preferred ecosystem. Considering your budget and technical comfort level will help narrow your options, avoiding unnecessary complexity or expense. The following factors serve as a guide to help you make an informed choice and avoid common pitfalls in smart home hub shopping.Protocol Support and Compatibility
Ensure the hub supports the protocols your devices use, such as Z-Wave, Zigbee, or Wi-Fi. Multi-protocol hubs offer broader device compatibility, reducing the need for multiple controllers. Beware of hubs that only support one protocol, which can limit your smart home expansion. Compatibility with major ecosystems like Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit also influences how easily your devices will work together, especially if you want voice control or app-based automation.
Local Control vs. Cloud Dependency
Hubs with local control capabilities process commands within your home network, leading to faster responses and increased privacy. Cloud-dependent hubs rely on internet connectivity, which can introduce latency or fail if your connection drops. If reliability and privacy are priorities, choose a hub with robust local processing. However, cloud-based hubs often provide easier updates and remote access, which might appeal to less technical users.
Ease of Setup and User Interface
Ease of installation varies widely—from plug-and-play devices to more complex systems requiring network configuration. A clear, intuitive user interface makes managing your devices simpler, especially for beginners. Consider whether the hub offers a dedicated app, physical controls, or integration with voice assistants. Well-designed setup processes can save hours of frustration and reduce the risk of misconfigurations.
Future-Proofing and Standards
Look for hubs supporting emerging standards like Matter, which promises greater interoperability across brands. Investing in a future-proof hub can save money and hassle as your smart home ecosystem grows. Check whether the hub receives regular firmware updates, ensuring compatibility with new devices and security patches. A hub with a strong development roadmap indicates longer-term reliability and support.
Price and Value
While premium hubs offer extensive features, they aren’t always necessary for smaller setups. Balance your budget against your needs—if you only plan to control a few devices, a less expensive hub might suffice. Conversely, if you want a centralized control point for a large, complex system, investing in a higher-end model can provide better long-term value. Be wary of hidden costs, such as subscription fees or required accessories, which can increase total expense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use multiple smart home hubs together?
In some cases, using multiple hubs can expand your system’s capabilities, especially if they support different protocols. However, it often introduces complexity and potential compatibility issues. Many modern hubs are designed to work with or bridge other systems via standards like Matter, simplifying integration. Before setting up multiple hubs, verify their interoperability and whether your devices can be managed seamlessly across them.
Is a more expensive hub always better?
Not necessarily. Higher-priced hubs typically offer more protocols, better build quality, and advanced features like local processing or future standards support. However, if your smart home setup is simple, a less expensive model may deliver all the functionality you need. Evaluate your current devices and future plans to determine whether the extra cost aligns with your requirements.
How important is Matter support for my hub?
Support for Matter is increasingly important because it aims to unify device interoperability across brands and ecosystems. A hub with Matter support can simplify device setup, reduce compatibility issues, and future-proof your system. If you plan to add new devices regularly, choosing a hub with Matter support can save time and money in the long run, providing more flexibility and easier integration.
Do I need a hub if I only have smart lights or thermostats?
It depends on the protocols your devices use. Many smart lights and thermostats connect directly to Wi-Fi or via a compatible hub, eliminating the need for a central controller. However, if your devices rely on Z-Wave or Zigbee, a hub becomes necessary to coordinate them effectively. For simple setups, some smart devices can operate without a dedicated hub, but a hub can streamline control and automation if you expand your system later.
What should I prioritize if I want a system that’s easy to upgrade?
Prioritize hubs that support standards like Zigbee, Z-Wave, and especially Matter, as these facilitate easier device addition from multiple manufacturers. Look for hubs with regular firmware updates and good manufacturer support, which ensure compatibility with new products over time. An intuitive app and straightforward setup process also help make future upgrades smoother, especially for users less familiar with complex networking setups.
