Intelligent, Secure Anywhere

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

1 - What are the first steps to configure my Home Assistant server?

To begin controlling your smart home with Intelcasa, follow these simple steps:

✅ Initial Setup

  1. Network Connection: Use an Ethernet cable to connect the NUC directly to your router.

  2. Power On: Connect the your NUC to a power outlet.

  3. Boot Time: Wait approximately 60 seconds for the system to fully start.

  4. Access the Dashboard: Open your web browser and enter the provided URL.
    Example: https://example.intelcasa.de

🔐 Secure Access with Cloudflare Zero Trust

To ensure your home system remains secure, we use Cloudflare Zero Trust authentication.

Here’s how it works:

  • When you visit the link, you'll be prompted to enter your email address.

  • A verification code will be sent to your email automatically.

  • Enter this code in the provided field to confirm your identity.

This step ensures that only authorized users can access your smart home system.

🔑 Logging in to Home Assistant

After Cloudflare authentication, you’ll be redirected to the Home Assistant login page.

  • Use the login credentials provided by the Intelcasa team.

  • If you haven’t received your credentials yet, please contact our support team.

2 - Can I configure wifi access for my Home Assistant?

Yes, you can! Just follow the steps below:

📶 Wi-Fi Setup Instructions

  1. Stay Connected to Ethernet:
    Make sure the NUC is still connected to the internet via Ethernet while setting up Wi-Fi.

  2. Access the SSH Interface:
    Follow the link on the e-mail “Intelcasa - Credentials” and log in with the credentials provided.

  3. Network Manager (nmtui):
    Once logged in, you’ll be taken directly to the nmtui (Network Manager Text User Interface).
    You won’t be able to run other commands — this is by design for your system’s safety.

  4. Add a Wi-Fi Connection:

    • Use the arrow keys to select "Activate a connection" and press Enter.

    • Look for your Wi-Fi network name (SSID) in the list.

    • Select it and press Enter.

    • Enter the Wi-Fi password when prompted and confirm.

  5. Verify Connection:

    • After a few seconds, your Wi-Fi should be connected.

    • You can optionally disconnect the Ethernet cable once Wi-Fi is working.

  6. Quit the browser:
    Once connected, you can close your browser.

3 - How can I add sensors and actuators to my Home Assistant?

To add devices like sensors, switches, or smart plugs to your Home Assistant setup, you’ll be using Zigbee2MQTT, a powerful tool for managing Zigbee devices.

🔌 Before You Begin

Make sure your Zigbee USB adapter is already connected to your Home Assistant server. This is usually pre-configured by Intelcasa.

🛰 Step-by-Step: Adding Devices via Zigbee2MQTT

  1. Access the Zigbee2MQTT Interface:

  2. Prepare the Device for Pairing:

    • Put your Zigbee device into pairing mode.
      (Refer to the device's manual — usually involves holding a button for a few seconds.)

  3. Enable Pairing in Zigbee2MQTT:

    • In the Zigbee2MQTT dashboard, click on “Permit Join” (usually a button at the top or side).

    • A countdown will start (e.g., 60 seconds) during which the system accepts new devices.

  4. Wait for Discovery:

    • Once your device is detected, it will appear in the device list.

    • Zigbee2MQTT will assign it a unique ID and start showing data (e.g., temperature, status).

  5. Rename and Configure (Optional):

    • Click the device name to assign a friendly name (e.g., “Living Room Sensor”).

    • Optionally, you can edit device-specific settings or group devices.

🔄 Device Integration with Home Assistant

All devices added via Zigbee2MQTT are automatically made available in your Home Assistant dashboard — no extra steps needed!

You’ll find them under:

  • Settings > Devices & Services > Devices

  • Or directly within your automations and dashboards.

4 - How can I configure the Home Assistant companion app on my mobile?

📱 Before You Begin
Make sure your Home Assistant server is up and running. You’ll need both your IntelCasa external URL and your Home Assistant local IP address.

📲 Step-by-Step: Setting Up the Companion App

1. Download the App:
Go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and search for “Home Assistant Companion.”
Install the official app by Nabu Casa.

2. Launch the App:
Open the app and tap “Continue” to begin setup.

3. Enter Your Server URL:
If you’re on the same Wi-Fi as your Home Assistant server, the app might auto-detect your server. If it doesn’t, follow these steps:

  • For security reasons, you need to log in to your local IP address first before adding your IntelCasa external URL.

  • Find your Home Assistant local IP either via your router/switch or by logging into your IntelCasa URL on a browser — the local IP shows on your dashboard.

  • Once you have the IP, go back to the companion app and enter:
    http://0.0.0.0:8123
    Replace 0.0.0.0 with your actual local IP address.

4. Log In:
Use your Home Assistant username and password to sign in.

5. Grant Permissions:
The app will ask for access to your device’s location, notifications, sensors, etc.
✅ We recommend allowing these for full functionality like presence detection and push notifications.

6. Update URLs in App Settings:

  • Go to Settings > Companion App.

  • Select your server from the list.

  • Open the External URL field, copy the address, then tap Cancel.

  • Tap the Internal URL field, paste the copied address, and tap Save.

  • Return to the External URL field, enter your IntelCasa external URL (e.g., https://example.intelcasa.de), and tap Save.

7. Finished:
You’re now ready to control your smart home on the go!

Get your home/business smart & secure now!