


But, you're also missing out on some remote access and automation features that having an independent connection offers. This option is helpful, on the one hand, because it means you don't need a hub. Some smart bulbs connect directly to your phone over Bluetooth. You'll also want to double-check to ensure your bulbs are actually able to connect over Wi-Fi.

If you're starting from scratch, it's worth planning around one of these hubs in order to minimize the number of devices in the home you need to manage. Protocols like Thread allow other smart home devices to be the home base for your smart light bulbs, rather than needing a completely separate hub. The Hue Lights app has been helpful to us for resetting bulbs orphaned by an irregular installation process. If you're bumping into problems, there are apps that can circumvent the native app's set-up process and reset bulbs if needed. You'll likely need to press a button on it to put the hub into pairing mode, so your mobile device can detect it (and the connected bulbs) over your Wi-Fi network. This hub can be a physical device that plugs directly into your Wi-Fi router. Generally, smart light bulbs require a hub that is already connected to your Wi-Fi network. The way to connect a smart light bulb to your Wi-Fi network will differ based on brand and model number. How do I connect my smart light bulb to Wi-Fi?
