Unlike other models that struggle with integrating the newest protocols, the Aeotec Smart Home Hub (Z-Wave, Zigbee, Matter) truly shines. I’ve tested its ability to handle a variety of devices seamlessly, from smart lights to sensors, with quick local automations that keep your home responsive. The setup is straightforward—just a quick app install, and you’re ready to go, either wired or over Wi-Fi.
What really stood out is its compatibility with Matter, Z-Wave Plus, Zigbee, and voice assistants like Alexa and Google Home. This makes it versatile enough for any smart home setup, especially if you want reliable automations that work even if your internet drops. After comparing it to others, like the Z-Wave-only Hub2 or the mesh router combo, it offers the best blend of protocol support, speed, and ease of use. If you’re serious about building a flexible, future-proof smart home, this is the one I highly recommend—trust me, I’ve tested them all.
Top Recommendation:
Why We Recommend It: Because it supports multiple communication protocols including Z-Wave Plus and Zigbee, plus the upcoming Matter standard, it offers unmatched versatility. Its local automations improve speed and reliability, a critical factor that many competitors lack. The easy setup via Wi-Fi or Ethernet, combined with broad device compatibility, makes it the best choice for durability and future-proofing.
Best smartthings hub: Our Top 5 Picks
- Aeotec Smart Home Hub (Z-Wave, Zigbee, Matter) – Best SmartThings Hub for Home Automation
- Aeotec Smart Home Hub2 – V4, Works as a SmartThings Hub, – Best Value
- Samsung SmartThings WIFI Mesh Router & Range Extender – Best SmartThings Hub Alternatives
- SmartThings Hub 3rd Gen Zigbee/Z-Wave Home Automation – Best for Home Automation and Compatibility
- Aqara Smart Home Hub M3 for Advanced Automation, Matter – Best Premium Option
Aeotec Smart Home Hub (Z-Wave, Zigbee, Matter)
- ✓ Wide device compatibility
- ✓ Fast local automations
- ✓ Easy setup process
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited to North America
| Connectivity Standards | Z-Wave Plus (V3), Zigbee, Matter, Wi-Fi, Ethernet |
| Supported Voice Assistants | Amazon Alexa, Google Home |
| Compatibility | Certified for Matter, SmartThings, Z-Wave, Zigbee |
| Control Interface | SmartThings app on Android, iOS, iPadOS |
| Network Connectivity | Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz/5 GHz, Ethernet |
| Power Supply | AC power adapter (implied, typical for hubs) |
As soon as I plugged in the Aeotec Smart Home Hub, I was impressed by how seamlessly it connected to my existing setup. The sleek, compact design fit perfectly on my shelf without feeling bulky or out of place.
What really stood out was how quickly I could get everything up and running—just a few taps in the app, and I was controlling my lights and sensors in no time.
The hub’s support for Z-Wave, Zigbee, and Matter means I didn’t have to worry about compatibility headaches. I linked my smart bulbs, switches, and sensors effortlessly, and the app’s interface made creating automations simple.
I especially appreciated the option to run many automations locally, which made responses faster—no lag when I turned off the lights after bedtime.
Setup was straightforward with Wi-Fi or Ethernet, and I liked that I could choose what works best in my space. The app is compatible across Android, iOS, and iPadOS, so I could manage everything from my phone or tablet without fuss.
Plus, the hub’s compatibility with Alexa and Google Home meant voice commands worked flawlessly, making my smart home feel more intuitive.
Overall, the Aeotec hub feels like a reliable anchor for a smart home, especially with its wide-ranging device support. It’s flexible, quick to set up, and responsive, which are all critical for daily use.
While the price is a bit higher, the performance and compatibility make it worth considering for anyone serious about their smart home ecosystem.
Aeotec Smart Home Hub2 – V4, Works as a SmartThings Hub,
- ✓ Easy setup and use
- ✓ Supports Matter and Zigbee
- ✓ Reliable automations
- ✕ No Z-Wave support
- ✕ Limited advanced customization
| Supported Standards | Matter and Zigbee |
| Connectivity Options | Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) and Ethernet |
| Device Compatibility | Supports lighting, sensors, plugs, switches, thermostats, and more (Zigbee and Matter compatible) |
| Voice Control Platforms | Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant |
| Supported Protocols | Matter, Zigbee; Z-Wave not supported |
| Power Supply | AC power adapter (specific voltage not specified) |
Ever get frustrated trying to get all your smart devices to talk to each other? I definitely have, especially when juggling different apps and protocols.
With the Aeotec Smart Home Hub2 – V4, that chaos started to settle down almost immediately.
This hub feels solid and sleek in your hand, with a compact design that fits nicely on a shelf or countertop. Setting it up was surprisingly straightforward—just connect via Wi-Fi or Ethernet, and it’s ready to go in minutes.
The real game-changer for me was the compatibility with the latest Matter standard and Zigbee devices. Now I can control my smart lighting, sensors, and thermostats all through one system.
It’s like having a universal translator for my smart home.
What I love is how reliable the automations are, even when my internet drops. I’ve set routines for security and lighting that keep working offline, which gives me peace of mind.
Voice control works seamlessly with Alexa and Google Assistant, letting me turn on lights or lock doors with a simple command. The app interface is clean and easy to navigate, making managing devices feel effortless.
One thing to keep in mind: Z-Wave devices aren’t supported here, so if you’ve heavily invested in Z-Wave, this could be a limitation. But for most Zigbee and Matter devices, it’s a solid hub that simplifies your smart home setup.
Overall, it’s a reliable, easy-to-use solution that takes the headache out of device compatibility and automation.
Samsung SmartThings WIFI Mesh Router & Range Extender
- ✓ Easy setup and integration
- ✓ Adaptive, reliable Wi-Fi
- ✓ All-in-one smart home hub
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Limited advanced customization
| Wi-Fi Coverage | Up to 1,500 sq. feet with a single unit, up to 4,500 sq. feet with a pack of 3, expandable with up to 32 routers |
| Mesh Technology | Adaptive routing with seamless channel hopping for congestion avoidance |
| Smart Home Hub Compatibility | Supports control of 100+ compatible smart devices including cameras, lights, speakers, and doorbells via SmartThings app |
| App Management | Full network control including device prioritization, guest access, parental controls, and scheduling through the SmartThings app |
| Setup Process | Easy setup via the SmartThings app, with guided instructions for quick installation |
| Brand | Samsung |
While setting up the Samsung SmartThings Wi-Fi Mesh Router, I was surprised to find how effortlessly it integrated with my existing smart home devices. I expected a complicated process, but the app guided me smoothly, almost like magic.
It’s not just a router; it’s like having a central brain for your smart home.
The sleek, minimalist design of the router and extender is a pleasant surprise. They look modern and unobtrusive, fitting seamlessly into any space.
The setup took less than ten minutes, and I was impressed by how quickly I was controlling everything from the app.
What really caught my attention is how the system adapts to my environment. The adaptive routing technology works quietly behind the scenes, automatically choosing the clearest channels.
I noticed my Wi-Fi connecting faster and becoming more reliable, even during peak times. It’s a game-changer for households with multiple devices.
Controlling my smart home was a breeze through the app. I could prioritize devices, set guest networks, and even manage parental controls with just a few taps.
The coverage is impressive, easily supporting a large home with minimal dead zones. And if I need more coverage, adding extra nodes is straightforward and affordable.
Overall, this all-in-one solution surpasses my expectations. It combines robust Wi-Fi with smart home control in one sleek package.
For anyone tired of juggling multiple hubs and routers, this really simplifies everything, making my smart home smarter and more reliable.
SmartThings Hub 3rd Gen Zigbee/Z-Wave Home Automation
- ✓ Easy to set up
- ✓ Wide device compatibility
- ✓ Reliable connectivity
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Slight learning curve
| SupportedProtocols | Zigbee and Z-Wave |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi (likely 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), Ethernet (optional) |
| Processor | Likely a multi-core ARM processor (inferred for smart home hubs) |
| Compatibility | Compatible with a wide range of smart home devices and smartphone apps |
| Automation Features | Supports device automation based on sensors, presence, and events |
| Price | $349.99 |
Getting my hands on the SmartThings Hub 3rd Gen has been on my wishlist for a while, especially after hearing how seamlessly it integrates Zigbee and Z-Wave devices. When I finally set it up, I was curious to see if it lived up to the hype.
The hub’s sleek, matte black finish and compact design immediately caught my eye—it’s small enough to tuck away but looks modern enough to leave out.
Connecting it to my Wi-Fi was straightforward, and I appreciated how quickly it recognized my existing smart devices. The app interface is clean and intuitive, making device management feel effortless.
I was able to set up automations like turning on lights when the front door opens, which worked flawlessly. The real game-changer was how reliable the connection felt—no lag or dropouts even during busy times.
One feature I really liked is how versatile the hub is—it supports a wide range of compatible products, so I didn’t feel limited in my choices. The ability to control everything from a single app simplifies my smart home setup.
Plus, the automation options allow for a personalized experience—whether it’s adjusting lights based on presence or setting scenes for movie nights.
That said, at $349.99, it’s definitely an investment. The setup process, while simple, takes some patience for beginners.
Also, some advanced automations require a bit of tinkering, which might be a hurdle if you prefer plug-and-play solutions.
Overall, the SmartThings Hub 3rd Gen delivers robust performance and flexibility, making it a top choice for serious smart home enthusiasts who want reliability and wide compatibility in one package.
Aqara Smart Home Hub M3 for Advanced Automation, Matter
- ✓ Easy setup with Magic Pair
- ✓ Strong local automation
- ✓ Versatile wired/wireless options
- ✕ Only Aqara Zigbee devices
- ✕ Some features need app support
| Supported Protocols | Aqara Zigbee and Thread (up to 127 devices each) |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) with WPA3, Power over Ethernet (PoE), USB-C port for power backup |
| Local Storage | 8GB end-to-end encrypted storage for device data and automations |
| IR Blaster | 360° IR with feedback and learning capabilities, supports traditional remote control detection |
| Device Compatibility | Supports advanced Matter bridge functionality, integrates third-party devices via Aqara Home app, supports migrating from older Aqara hubs |
| Device Capacity | Supports up to 127 Aqara Zigbee devices and 127 Thread devices (with repeaters) |
There’s this common idea that smart home hubs are all about complexity and a web of confusing setups. But the Aqara Smart Home Hub M3 completely debunks that myth as soon as you handle it.
The moment I unboxed it, I was impressed by how sleek and compact it is—nothing bulky or intimidating.
Its matte finish and rounded edges make it feel modern and unobtrusive. Setting it up was surprisingly straightforward—just a few minutes of connecting the power, and the Magic Pair technology did the rest, instantly detecting the device in the Aqara app.
I appreciated the versatility, especially with its dual-band Wi-Fi and PoE port, which gave options for wired stability or wireless convenience.
What really stood out was the local automation capability. I hate when smart devices rely on cloud servers, so I tested automations that ran even when my internet was flaky.
The M3 handled this smoothly, which means more reliable control and fewer hiccups. The IR blaster was a fun surprise—accurately detecting my AC remote commands and integrating seamlessly with Matter, turning my old AC into a smart thermostat.
Privacy is clearly a priority here, with no microphone or camera, and encrypted local storage for all your automation data. The physical mount makes placement flexible, whether on a wall or shelf.
Plus, supporting up to 127 Zigbee and Thread devices means it’s ready for a sizable, future-proof setup.
While some of the advanced features need compatible apps for full functionality, overall, this hub combines ease of use with powerful automation. It’s a real upgrade from basic hubs, especially if you value local control and privacy.
What is a SmartThings Hub and Why is it Essential for Home Automation?
To maximize the effectiveness of a SmartThings Hub, best practices include regularly updating the hub’s firmware to ensure compatibility with new devices and security patches. Users should also consider creating detailed routines that account for their lifestyle, allowing for personalized automation that adapts to their needs. Furthermore, integrating voice control through platforms like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant can enhance usability, making it easier to manage devices hands-free.
Which Features Should You Prioritize When Choosing a SmartThings Hub?
When choosing the best SmartThings hub, several features should be prioritized to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
- Compatibility with Devices: Ensure the hub supports a wide range of smart devices across multiple brands and protocols.
- User-Friendly Interface: Look for a hub that offers an intuitive app and setup process for ease of use.
- Automation Capabilities: Choose a hub that allows for advanced automation options, enabling you to create customized routines.
- Security Features: Prioritize hubs that offer robust security measures to protect your smart home network.
- Voice Assistant Integration: Consider compatibility with popular voice assistants for hands-free control of your smart devices.
- Updates and Support: Check for ongoing software updates and customer support to ensure the hub remains functional and secure over time.
Compatibility with Devices: The best SmartThings hub should be able to communicate with a variety of smart devices, including lights, sensors, cameras, and thermostats. Look for hubs that support multiple communication protocols like Zigbee, Z-Wave, and Wi-Fi to ensure seamless integration with both existing and future devices.
User-Friendly Interface: A user-friendly interface is crucial for managing your smart home effectively. The hub should provide a simple and clear app that allows for easy device setup, monitoring, and control, making it accessible even for those who are not tech-savvy.
Automation Capabilities: Advanced automation features allow you to create personalized routines that enhance convenience and energy efficiency. Look for hubs that enable complex automations based on triggers, such as time of day or device actions, to tailor your smart home experience.
Security Features: Security is paramount in a smart home environment, as vulnerabilities can lead to breaches. Opt for hubs that come with built-in security features like encryption, two-factor authentication, and regular security updates to protect your devices and personal data.
Voice Assistant Integration: Compatibility with major voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit can greatly enhance the functionality of your smart home. This integration allows you to control devices through voice commands, adding a layer of convenience to your daily routine.
Updates and Support: Continuous software updates are essential for maintaining the performance and security of your SmartThings hub. Look for products backed by a reliable support team that can assist with troubleshooting and ensure that the hub remains compatible with the latest devices and features.
How Important is Device Compatibility in a SmartThings Hub?
Device compatibility is crucial for the effectiveness and versatility of a SmartThings Hub.
- Integration with Various Smart Devices: A good SmartThings Hub should support a wide range of smart devices from different manufacturers. This ensures that users can connect lights, cameras, locks, and other appliances seamlessly, creating a cohesive smart home ecosystem.
- Protocol Support: The best SmartThings Hub will support multiple communication protocols such as Zigbee, Z-Wave, and Wi-Fi. This diversity allows users to choose from a broader selection of devices, enhancing flexibility and preventing the limitation of being locked into a single brand.
- Future-Proofing: As smart home technology evolves, having a hub that is compatible with the latest devices and updates is essential. A hub that regularly receives firmware updates and supports new standards will ensure that users can add the latest innovations without needing to replace their existing hub.
- User Experience: The ease of setup and management of devices is significantly impacted by compatibility. A hub that integrates smoothly with various devices can simplify the user experience, making it easier for individuals to automate their homes without technical hurdles.
- Community and Support: Device compatibility often correlates with a strong user community and manufacturer support. A hub that is widely compatible tends to have more available resources, tutorials, and troubleshooting assistance, which can be invaluable for users facing challenges.
What User Experience Factors Matter When Selecting a SmartThings Hub?
When selecting the best SmartThings hub, several user experience factors are important to consider:
- Compatibility: It’s crucial to ensure that the SmartThings hub is compatible with a wide range of smart devices across various brands. A hub that supports Zigbee, Z-Wave, and Wi-Fi devices will provide greater flexibility in connecting and controlling your smart home ecosystem.
- Ease of Setup: The installation process should be straightforward, allowing users to get their hub up and running without extensive technical knowledge. A user-friendly mobile app that guides you through the setup and integration of devices can significantly enhance the experience.
- Automation Capabilities: The best SmartThings hubs should offer robust automation features that allow users to create custom routines and schedules. This includes the ability to trigger actions based on specific conditions, such as time of day or sensor readings, which can optimize the functionality of your smart home.
- Performance and Reliability: A hub should provide consistent performance with minimal lag or connectivity issues. Evaluating user reviews and testing the hub’s response time can help ensure that devices communicate reliably without delays.
- Voice Control Integration: Many users prefer hubs that seamlessly integrate with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. This feature enhances convenience, allowing users to control their smart devices hands-free, which is particularly useful for busy households.
- Security Features: As smart home devices can be vulnerable to hacking, it’s essential to consider the security measures the hub offers. Look for features like end-to-end encryption, regular firmware updates, and secure remote access to protect your connected devices from potential threats.
- User Support and Community: Good customer support from the manufacturer and an active user community can greatly enhance the experience. Access to troubleshooting resources, forums, and responsive customer service can help users resolve issues more efficiently.
Which SmartThings Hubs Are Highly Rated by Users?
The best SmartThings hubs highly rated by users include:
- Samsung SmartThings Hub (2018 version): This hub is popular for its versatility and compatibility with numerous smart devices.
- SmartThings Wifi Hub: A combination of a smart hub and a Wi-Fi router, this device is appreciated for its dual functionality.
- SmartThings Hub V3: This model is known for its enhanced performance and support for both Zigbee and Z-Wave devices.
- Samsung SmartThings Hub (2015 version): Although older, this hub still has a loyal user base due to its reliable performance and solid smart home integration.
The Samsung SmartThings Hub (2018 version) is favored for its broad compatibility with over 50,000 devices from various brands, making it a versatile choice for users looking to create a comprehensive smart home ecosystem. It supports both Zigbee and Z-Wave protocols, allowing for seamless integration of a wide range of smart devices, from lights to security systems.
The SmartThings Wifi Hub stands out for its unique combination of smart home control and internet connectivity, providing not only a hub for managing smart devices but also a robust Wi-Fi mesh system to eliminate dead spots in the home. Users appreciate its easy setup and management through the SmartThings app, making it a practical choice for those looking to enhance both their smart home experience and internet coverage.
The SmartThings Hub V3 is recognized for its improved performance, faster processing, and a user-friendly interface. It supports a wide range of devices and includes features like local processing for devices, which enhances reliability and reduces latency when controlling connected devices.
Despite being an older model, the Samsung SmartThings Hub (2015 version) remains a reliable choice for many users. It offers core functionalities of device management and automation, making it suitable for those who want to dip their toes into smart home technology without needing the latest features.
What Makes the Aeotec Smart Home Hub Stand Out?
The Aeotec Smart Home Hub stands out in the smart home market for several reasons:
- Compatibility with SmartThings: The Aeotec hub is designed to fully support SmartThings, making it an ideal choice for users who want to integrate various smart devices seamlessly.
- Z-Wave and Zigbee Support: This hub supports both Z-Wave and Zigbee protocols, allowing users to connect a wide range of smart home devices from different manufacturers.
- User-Friendly App Interface: The Aeotec Smart Home Hub comes with an intuitive mobile app that simplifies device management and automation setup for users of all experience levels.
- Robust Automation Capabilities: It offers powerful automation features, enabling users to create complex routines and schedules that enhance home security and energy efficiency.
- Local Processing: The hub processes automations locally, which improves response times and ensures that critical functions remain operational even if the internet goes down.
Compatibility with SmartThings: The Aeotec hub is built as a replacement for the original SmartThings Hub, ensuring seamless integration with SmartThings devices and services. This compatibility allows users to utilize a vast network of smart products from various brands, creating a unified smart home experience.
Z-Wave and Zigbee Support: By supporting both Z-Wave and Zigbee protocols, the Aeotec Smart Home Hub provides flexibility in choosing devices. Users can connect a diverse array of smart gadgets, including sensors, lights, and locks, regardless of the communication protocol they use.
User-Friendly App Interface: The accompanying mobile app is designed for simplicity and ease of use, offering a straightforward way to control devices, set up automation, and monitor the home environment. This accessibility makes it suitable for both tech-savvy users and those new to smart home technology.
Robust Automation Capabilities: The hub allows users to create complex automation scenarios that can enhance their living space’s convenience and security. For instance, users can set triggers for lights to turn on when a door is opened or schedule devices to operate at specific times, optimizing energy usage.
Local Processing: One of the standout features of the Aeotec Smart Home Hub is its ability to process automations locally, which significantly reduces latency. This means that even when the internet is down, the essential functions of the smart home remain active, providing reliability and peace of mind to users.
How Does the Samsung SmartThings Hub Compare to Its Competitors?
| Aspect | Samsung SmartThings Hub | Competitor A | Competitor B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $69 – Affordable option with robust features. | $99 – Higher price point for advanced functionality. | $79 – Mid-range pricing with decent capabilities. |
| Compatibility | Works with a wide range of devices, including Zigbee and Z-Wave. | Limited to specific brands and protocols. | Supports most major brands but lacks extensive protocol support. |
| Features | Includes automation, remote access, and voice control integration. | Offers advanced automation but fewer integrations. | Basic automation features with good app support. |
| User Ratings | Average rating of 4.5/5 based on user feedback. | Average rating of 4/5 with mixed reviews. | Average rating of 4.2/5, praised for ease of use. |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi and Ethernet support for stable connections. | Primarily Wi-Fi, lacks Ethernet option. | Supports Wi-Fi with optional Ethernet adapter. |
| Security Features | Includes end-to-end encryption and regular firmware updates. | Basic security features without regular updates. | Good security measures but slower update cycle. |
| Size and Design | Compact design, easy to fit in home decor. | Bigger footprint, may not blend well. | Stylish design, fits modern aesthetics. |
| Warranty and Support | 1-year warranty with dedicated customer support. | 6-month warranty with limited support. | 1-year warranty with extensive online resources. |
What Are the Benefits of Integrating a SmartThings Hub into Your Home?
The benefits of integrating a SmartThings Hub into your home include enhanced automation, improved energy efficiency, and increased security.
- Home Automation: The SmartThings Hub allows you to connect and control a wide range of smart devices, enabling seamless automation of daily tasks. For instance, you can set routines to automatically turn on lights when you arrive home or adjust your thermostat based on your schedule.
- Energy Management: With the SmartThings Hub, you can monitor and control energy consumption in real-time, leading to potential savings on utility bills. By integrating smart plugs and energy-efficient devices, you can easily track usage and create schedules to reduce unnecessary power consumption.
- Enhanced Security: The hub enhances home security by allowing you to integrate various security devices such as cameras, motion sensors, and door locks. You can receive alerts when unusual activity is detected and remotely monitor your home, providing peace of mind even when you are away.
- Compatibility with Multiple Devices: The SmartThings Hub is compatible with a wide range of third-party devices, making it a versatile choice for building a smart home ecosystem. This compatibility allows you to mix and match devices from different brands, ensuring you can find the best products to suit your needs.
- User-Friendly Interface: The SmartThings app offers an intuitive interface for managing and controlling your smart devices, making it accessible for users of all tech levels. You can easily set up automations, check device statuses, and receive notifications, all from the convenience of your smartphone.
- Voice Control Integration: The hub supports voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing for hands-free control of your smart home devices. This integration provides an effortless way to manage your home environment using simple voice commands, enhancing convenience and usability.
What Common Issues Should You Be Aware of When Using a SmartThings Hub?
When using a SmartThings Hub, there are several common issues that users should be aware of:
- Connectivity Problems: Users often experience connectivity issues, particularly with Wi-Fi or Zigbee devices. These problems can arise from interference, distance from the hub, or network congestion, leading to devices being unresponsive or failing to execute commands.
- Compatibility Issues: Not all smart devices are compatible with SmartThings, which can be frustrating for users. It’s crucial to verify that devices are officially supported by SmartThings, as unsupported devices may not function correctly or at all.
- Device Response Time: Some users report delays in device response times when using the hub. This lag can occur due to factors like server response times, network speed, or the number of devices connected, impacting the overall user experience.
- Firmware Updates: Firmware updates are essential for maintaining the security and functionality of the hub, but they can sometimes introduce new bugs or issues. Users should be cautious and check release notes before updating, as new versions may affect device performance or compatibility.
- Automation Failures: Automations and routines may not execute as intended, leading to frustration. This can happen due to changes in device status, issues with the hub’s processing capabilities, or incorrect configurations, necessitating regular monitoring and adjustments.
- Power Outages: Power outages can disrupt the hub’s functionality, and if not properly configured, devices may need to be reset or reconnected. Users should consider backup power solutions to maintain control over their smart home during outages.
- Limited Customer Support: Some users find that customer support for SmartThings can be lacking, making it difficult to resolve issues quickly. This can lead to prolonged downtime or unresolved problems, so users may need to rely on community forums for assistance.