Technology Behind Homer
Privacy-First Architecture
Homer is built with a fundamentally different approach from conventional cloud-based systems:
- Your data stays in your organization. The Homer server runs on your premises, keeping your information local and under your control.
- Direct access model. You connect directly to your Homer server, not through third-party cloud services.
- Local authentication. Your password is known only to your Homer server, we never see or store it.
This approach means your data belongs to you. We can't access your information unless you specifically grant permission.
The Homer system provides the benefits of modern monitoring and control without compromising on data privacy or security.
Central Server
- Registration service
- Connection broker
- Update distribution
- Server discovery
Your Homer Server
- Local data storage
- Device control
- Authentication
- Processing
Your Devices
- Direct connection
- Secure access
- Web interface
- Remote access
Connection & Security Model
The Homer system uses a unique approach to balance accessibility with security:
Initial Setup
Your Homer server generates a unique ID that is registered with our central server. This ID allows the system to be discoverable without exposing your internal network.
User Registration
You create your username and password on your Homer server. While your username and Homer name are registered with the central server for discovery, your password stays exclusively on your local system.
Secure Communication
Your Homer server establishes an encrypted WebSocket connection with our central server. This outbound connection provides secure remote access without requiring firewall changes.
Direct Access
When you access your Homer remotely, our central server helps establish the initial connection, but you're connecting directly to your server. The central server acts as a bridge without seeing your data.
Enhanced Security Protection
This architecture provides natural protection against many common security threats:
- The central server absorbs potential DDoS attacks, shielding your local system
- The authentication model ensures credentials remain local
- Even if the central server is unavailable, your Homer system continues to function locally
Efficient System Design
Lightweight Hardware Requirements
Homer is designed for exceptional efficiency, running perfectly on lightweight hardware:
- Full functionality on devices as small as a Luckfox Pico
- Exceptional performance on Raspberry Pi and similar single-board computers
- Minimal resource consumption for long-term reliability
This efficiency means you can deploy Homer without investing in expensive server hardware, reducing both initial costs and long-term energy consumption.
Optimized Software Architecture
The Homer system uses custom components and a streamlined architecture:
- Specialized components built for maximum efficiency
- Minimal dependencies to ensure long-term stability
- Low resource footprint while maintaining responsiveness
- Designed for reliability with minimal maintenance
This approach creates a system that's both powerful and reliable, requiring minimal intervention once deployed.
Data Collection & Storage
Comprehensive Data Logging
Homer captures detailed operational data for analysis and optimization:
- Temperature readings from multiple sensors
- Energy usage patterns
- Device operation states
- System performance metrics
This comprehensive data collection enables intelligent decision-making and ongoing performance improvements.
Long-Term Storage
Homer is designed to maintain your valuable data for the long term:
- Data is stored locally on your Homer server
- Standard 10-year retention for historical analysis
- Intelligent summarization for efficient storage
- Maintains detailed records without overwhelming storage requirements
This approach ensures you have access to both detailed recent data and meaningful historical trends.
System Components
Central Server
The central server provides:
- Homer server registration
- Remote access facilitation
- Software updates
- Module marketplace
Serves as a connection broker without having access to your data.
Homer Server
Your local Homer server handles:
- Device control and automation
- User authentication
- Local data storage and processing
- Module execution
Runs on lightweight hardware with minimal resource requirements.
User Interface
The Homer user interface provides:
- Intuitive controls for your devices
- Visualization of energy usage and patterns
- Module configuration
- System status monitoring
Accessible from any device with responsive design for all screen sizes.
Security Features
End-to-End Encryption
All communications between your devices and your Homer server use HTTPS and WSS (WebSocket Secure) protocols with strong encryption.
Local Authentication
Your credentials are stored and verified locally on your Homer server, not in the cloud, ensuring your authentication details remain private.
Role-Based Access
Different user roles (Admin, Editor, User, Guest) with appropriate permissions ensure controlled access to your system based on user needs.
Offline Capabilities
Your Homer continues to function even without internet access, ensuring reliability and maintaining your privacy and security at all times.
Future-Ready Design
The Homer system is built with future expansion and evolving technology in mind:
Modular Architecture
Homer's modular design allows new capabilities to be added as your needs evolve:
- Energy management modules
- Advanced monitoring capabilities
- Integration with additional devices and systems
- Specialized modules for specific applications
Ownership & Transferability
We're developing innovative approaches to system ownership:
- Plans for secure ID management that allows system transfers
- Technology to properly associate systems with properties
- Methods to migrate user data when moving to a new location
- Secure approaches that respect privacy and ownership
Ready to Take Control of Your Systems?
Join our pilot program to experience the Homer difference.