network portal advice

[arctec37]

Hi

I am new to using isy. Install a isy994izw with 2 z wave Trane thermostats so far. Thermostats installed no problem.   Lighting to follow and integration with my ELK M-1 to follow.

 

I now want to be able to connect to the isy remotely using a app on my android phone and from a windows 10 computer.  From what I have read the "Agave" app seems to have good ratings. Any other thoughts?  My understanding is that I need a "Network Module" to accomplish this. I also think I need an isy portal to connect to Agave. Is this correct?

 

So I am thinking I need to purchase the "isy portal" which comes with the network module. Is this correct?

 

Also I read in one of the forums that it would be better to purchase the network module out right so you own it forever. If so would I then need to purchase the "isy portal" in addition at the same cost?

 

Thanks

 

Arctec37

[paulbates]

Hi and welcome to the UDI forums!

 

You have choices in these 2 buckets:

1. Open ports on your router to allow agave into your house's network and connect to the ISY:
   • You'll need a url to use remotely for this scenario as well
   • Create router firewall rule to your ISY
   • You'll also want to get a dyndns type account that will create a "url" for your house.. for instance arctec37.dyndns.com. 
   • Also typically routers have a feature to support a dyndns client... dyndns clients need something running locally to check if your ISP changes your houses IP address
   • Ideally get and install your own self signed certificates using the ISY Dashboard java app
   • You can use a web browser to get the simple ISY web page or Home Automation Dashboard pages.
2. Buy the ISY portal subscription so that your ISY "dials out" from your house to the ISY portal.
   • Connect agave to to the ISY portal
   • No ports open (good for internet security)
   • no dnynds services needed
   • No self signed certificates required for this application
   • You can also access the ISY Admin console from a remote java capable computer this way too
   • The ISY portal has other benefits like IFTTT, Amazon echo and Google home connectivity

I started with option 1. I stopped doing that and went to option 2 a few years ago when the portal became available. I don't use agave or other mobile app, but if I did, I would via option 2

 

You do not need the network module for this application. The network module allows ISY programs to send network messages to devices like A/V, HVAC, Notification services, etc. I own the network module because I bought it before the portal was a product. If you decide to try the portal, I would wait on buying the network module, until you have something that requires its use.. decided then,

 

Paul

[arctec37]

Thanks Paul!

 

This is exactly what I needed to know. I will go with option 2 - the isy portal.  I am familiar with port fowarding and have a dyndns account that I use for my elk panels.  But I have comcast xfinity and their modem/router does not have dns capabilities (couldn't believe it) so I like the fact that the isy portal doesn't need it and I don't have to go out and purchase a new modem/router.

 

Thanks again

 

Arctec37

[paulbates]

Np. I have had comcast for as long as they've been around. I go into the office and request their cable modem, configure it in passthough mode, and put my own wifi router behind it. My network config has grown enough that I want to be able to switch without out a lot of scrambling.

 

I actually reaped the benefits of this a few years back when they rolled out DOCSIS 3. 

 

 

Paul