What is Z-Wave?

Z-Wave is a proprietary, wireless, low-power RF communication protocol that allows for home/business automation.

The first and most important thing to understand about Z-Wave is that it’s a mesh network.

Unlike a Wi-Fi network, where all communication must occur directly with the wireless router, Z-Wave allows any device powered by the home (not batteries) to relay messages between devices or nodes. This allows the panel to communicate with distant devices by passing messages through intermediary devices. For example, an Alarm.com panel may communicate with a lock by first routing the message through a lamp module and then a thermostat.

This type of distributed messaging is known as a mesh network. The best way to strengthen the mesh network is to make sure that every device has multiple paths of communication to the security panel. Remember, only devices that plug into a wall outlet or are wired into the home’s electricity will repeat messages.

The Z-Wave network not only stores information about the strongest path of communication between devices, but also stores information for backup routes. If one device in the normally strongest communication route fails for any reason, the Z-Wave network will automatically compensate by finding another available route through other repeating nodes.

As shown in the following image, the security panel sends messages to nearby devices, which are then relayed to farther devices.