Home automation or demotics is building automation for a home, called a smart home or smart house.  A home automation scheme will regulate climate, lighting, appliances, and entertainment systems. It may also comprise home security such as access control and alarm systems. When linked with the Internet, home devices are an important component of the Internet of Things.

A home automation system characteristically attaches controlled devices to a central hub or “gateway”. The user interface for control of the system uses either wall-mounted terminals, tablet or desktop computers, a mobile phone application, or a Web interface, that may also be accessible off-site through the Internet.

While there are many rival retailers, there are very few worldwide accepted industries standards and the smart home space is heavily disjointed. Manufacturers often prevent independent implementations by withholding documentation and by litigation.