What is a Matter controller?

What you need to know

A Matter controller commissions and manages Matter devices. Not all controllers are border routers. This guide covers everything you need to understand what is a matter controller?.

Key concepts

• Matter is the unified smart home standard
• Thread is the low-power mesh network
• Controllers commission and manage devices
• Platforms provide the user interface

How it works

1. A Matter controller commissions the device
2. The device joins the Matter network
3. You control it via your chosen platform
4. Automations and scenes work across devices

Common questions

• Do I need a Thread border router? (Only for Thread devices)
• Can I use multiple platforms? (Yes, with multi-admin)
• Does Matter work without internet? (Yes, local control)

Next steps

Check the compatibility checker to verify your setup, or read more guides.