What is Matter?
Matter is an open, industry-unifying connectivity standard that allows smart home devices from different manufacturers to work together seamlessly. It was created jointly by Apple, Google, Amazon, Samsung, and hundreds of other companies through the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), with the primary goal of eliminating ecosystem lock-in.
Key Benefits
- Interoperability: Devices work together regardless of brand or manufacturer
- Simplified Setup: Standardized QR code commissioning process across all platforms
- Local Control: Operates over your local Wi-Fi network without mandatory cloud access
- End-to-End Encryption: All device-to-device communication is encrypted
- Future-Proof: Backward compatibility and ongoing standard development — Matter is actively maintained and updated by the CSA
Supported Device Types
Matter supports a wide and growing range of device categories:
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Lighting | Bulbs, fixtures, switches, dimmers |
| Climate | Thermostats, heaters, air conditioners |
| Security | Door locks, contact sensors, motion sensors |
| Window Coverings | Blinds, shades, shutters |
| Appliances | Refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens |
| Energy | Plugs, power meters, EV chargers |
Standard Setup Process
The Matter commissioning process follows the same flow across all platforms:
- Open your home app (Apple Home, Google Home, Alexa, SmartThings, Home Assistant, etc.)
- Tap ”+” or “Add Device” and choose the Matter-compatible option
- Scan the QR code on the device using the app’s camera
- Wait 2–3 minutes for the device to connect and configure
- Assign room, name, and automations as desired
- Verify functionality — test basic controls
Do I need a hub? A hub (HomePod, Google Nest Hub, Amazon Echo, etc.) is required for remote access, automations, and scenes. While a handful of ecosystems technically allow basic local control without a dedicated hub, this is the exception rather than the rule. For any reliable deployment, plan on a hub. See Network Requirements for details.
Wi-Fi vs Thread
Matter can run over two transport protocols. Understanding the difference helps you choose the right deployment:
| Aspect | Matter over Wi-Fi | Matter over Thread |
|---|---|---|
| Range | Limited by Wi-Fi coverage | Better with mesh networking |
| Power Efficiency | Higher power consumption | Excellent for battery devices |
| Complexity | Simpler setup | Requires Thread border router |
| Best For | Plugged-in devices (e.g. luminaires) | Battery-powered sensors |
| Reliability | Depends on Wi-Fi stability | More resilient self-healing mesh |
Prolicht Matter luminaires use Matter over Wi-Fi — no Thread border router required.
Note on 2.4 GHz: Most IoT devices, including the M2D Bridge and IM Pushbutton Module, connect over 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi only. Make sure your router broadcasts a 2.4 GHz SSID. Matter uses IPv6 link-local addressing internally — no IPv6 configuration is needed on your router.
Is Matter Secure?
Yes. Matter’s security model is built on:
- Wi-Fi Security: Uses your network’s standard encryption (WPA2/WPA3)
- End-to-End Encryption: All device-to-device communication is encrypted
- Local Network Operation: Basic control works without cloud — no internet outages affect your lights
- Certified Security: Every Matter product has passed CSA security testing before certification