Readers, regardless if you like what I have to say or not, please do me a favor and put a reaction on this post if you have a Home Assistant server or live in a home where it is running. This is to help identify the amount of users of Home Assistant just within this community.
IF you do happen to like what I have to say here, please show your support and give this a vote.
Hello Alta Labs Team,
I’d like to propose a feature that could significantly expand Alta Labs’ appeal among smart home enthusiasts, integrators, and managed service providers who prioritize local-first infrastructure: the addition of a fully-documented local API or an official integration with Home Assistant, designed specifically to work with your on-prem controller deployments—either the downloadable software or the standalone controller unit.
Why It Matters
There is a rapidly growing segment of the networking market—especially among Home Assistant users—who prioritize self-hosted, cloud-independent control over their environments. Alta Labs already appeals to this group through features like the on-prem controller and optional cloud independence.
However, without integrated automation support, that potential remains underutilized.
What We’re Requesting
Option 1: Local API Access (Preferred)
A secure, well-documented API, locally accessible on the LAN, capable of exposing both data and control endpoints. This would allow Home Assistant (or any local platform) to:
- Query real-time and historical client and device status
- Enable or disable specific SSIDs
- Turn on/off individual switch ports
- Adjust passwords, schedules, or guest access dynamically
- Receive event-driven updates (via Webhooks, MQTT, or WebSockets)
Option 2: Official Home Assistant Integration
If direct API exposure isn’t possible, an official Home Assistant integration offering similar capabilities would allow full automation compatibility. For example:
- Turn off a guest SSID at night
- Disable WAN access when a security system is armed
- Power off PoE ports if energy usage exceeds a threshold
- Trigger network state changes based on presence detection
Use Case Examples
- Small Business Automation: Disable unused ports or shut down Wi-Fi when no employees are present.
- Home Security Integration: Tie SSID availability or bandwidth rules to alarm state or presence detection.
- Energy Saving Mode: Turn off PoE cameras or access points based on solar power availability or scheduled routines.
- Child Safety Controls: Use Home Assistant to restrict internet access by time of day or device.
Why This Benefits Alta Labs
- Differentiates Alta Labs in a field where most vendors are either cloud-locked or treat automation as an afterthought.
- Aligns with your on-prem controller philosophy, appealing to privacy-conscious customers and integrators.
- Increases market penetration in the rapidly growing smart home, prosumer, and advanced SOHO segments.
- Drives adoption through word of mouth from highly engaged technical users who rely on Home Assistant and other local-first platforms.
Final Thoughts
Alta Labs is already impressing with strong fundamentals and a thoughtful user experience. Offering Home Assistant integration—especially with bi-directional control—would not only complete the picture but open the door to a new wave of loyal, high-value customers who build systems around flexibility and control.
