Smart Plug Suggestions
Smart Plug Suggestions
Hi, it's a bit unclear where this fits since there isn't a dedicated smart home subforum, so I'm focusing on connecting. I'm searching for a smart plug (UK Outlet) that lets you manage it remotely outside your local network. It should work from a mobile device even when not connected to the local network. I've already got an Ubiquiti G3 Flex set up as a pet cam for when no one's home, but I don't want cameras always on inside the house. While I appreciate Ubiquiti products, UniFi Protect lacks essential features and can't control cameras via its software. A smart plug seems like the best choice. Ideally, it should only talk to a controller locally—preferably on your own hardware—then the mobile app acts as a relay. That way, I can secure the VM running the controller and gain more control over its security. When comparing pet cam options, several have unresolved critical security issues that remain unpatched, so I'm choosing this path instead.
Is the G3 Flex a PoE camera? Do you need the ability to disconnect its power supply?
It uses USB C, but I can connect via an 802.3af adapter powered through PoE. I’d opt for the PoE setup instead of relying on UniFi’s controller alone. It needs a simple single-button switch—on and off—so anyone can manage it easily. The app lacks strong permission controls; you’re either fully granted or completely denied access, which isn’t ideal. I wouldn’t trust others to accidentally disable PoE for critical devices like an access point or cameras. Ideally, I’d use a VPN to remotely manage the network from my own device, since I’m the only one who needs that level of control. On Zwave, support in the UK is limited. I’m thinking about Home Assistant, but it seems they require flashing to another OS for full functionality. Honestly, I dislike smart home systems that force you to use “Home” mode; I prefer something more straightforward. TP-Link smart plugs are a known brand, so I’d be cautious about security, especially if I need to restrict their internet access. I might try isolating the device with its own SSID, keeping it separate from the main network for safety.
@Oshino Shinobu This raises questions about using UniFi Protect via the cloud. Still, you must provide login details to reach the Controller, whether it's on-site or cloud-based, right?
I handle things locally without relying on cloud access, though I do require login details. The camera works fine when accessed, but I'm concerned about keeping it off when people are inside. I don't want it running unnecessarily, especially when the dog is home alone. My goal is to switch it on only when guests are away and off when they return.
@Oshino Shinobu, I understand your point. The “other user” can view your camera in UniFi Protect, but you’d like to restrict access when your family is inside. I checked the documentation and didn’t find a way to limit who sees what or when. That would have been a cleaner solution, though it might be added in future updates. Regarding smart plugs, I found the TP-Link Kasa Mini (single unit) which works directly on your existing Wi-Fi for remote control via the app—whether you’re home or away. It has positive reviews.
It's a bit complex. Only my household gets access, but I need it disabled unless I choose. Protect doesn't seem to handle this well—there are restrictions like being unable to split permissions for live feeds and recordings, which was an issue in the previous UniFi UniFi Video version. It feels like the system isn’t built for real-world production or business use. In some regions, especially where laws restrict live view and recording rights, having such access could be illegal without proper hardware. I’m considering TP-Link devices since they’re simpler, though I dislike their reliance on constant internet. I’ve set up Home Assistant on a VM and am experimenting with it. These devices can be updated locally and work in a highly restricted network with HA, letting me control them remotely. The real issue isn’t about access rules—it’s about being able to switch the camera on or off as needed. I’m concerned about privacy because having a camera inside feels risky, even though I don’t want to trust others with it. Outside cameras are always active and motion-triggered, which is fine, but an indoor camera should require intentional activation to avoid accidental monitoring. This would act as a mental deterrent, making it harder for someone to view live feeds without clear intent.
@Falcon1986 and @Lurick chose the TP-Link Kasa Mini. Realized it must connect to the internet for functionality, so I created a separate, isolated WLAN with only internet access. I still plan to explore Home Assistant later, though balancing security with remote and local access will be challenging. Having IoT devices that don’t touch the local network gives me peace of mind, even though it means managing just one device there.