WebThings Gateway

Self-Hosted

Open-source IoT gateway for local smart device control

Overview

WebThings Gateway is an open-source IoT gateway that prioritizes local control and privacy for smart devices. It supports popular protocols like Zigbee, Z-Wave, WiFi, and BLE, enabling integration of diverse devices (lights, sensors, thermostats). Deployable on Raspberry Pi, Docker, or Linux systems, it offers a web-based dashboard for device management, custom automations (rules based on time/sensor data), and secure remote access via tunnels. All data stays local by default, giving users full control over their IoT ecosystem, with extensions available to add new features or device compatibility.

Self-Hosting Resources

Find Official Image on Docker Hub View Source & Docs

Below is a reference structure for docker-compose.yml. ⚠️ Do NOT run blindly. Replace placeholders with official values.

docker-compose.template.yml TEMPLATE


version: '3'
services:
  webthings_gateway:
    image: <OFFICIAL_IMAGE_NAME>:latest
    container_name: webthings-gateway
    ports:
      - "8080:<APP_INTERNAL_PORT>"
    volumes:
      - ./data:/app/data
    restart: unless-stopped

Key Features

Local-first device control (no cloud dependency)
Multi-protocol support (Zigbee, Z-Wave, WiFi, BLE)
Custom automations and rules engine
Deployable on Raspberry Pi, Docker, or Linux systems

Frequently Asked Questions

? Is WebThings Gateway hard to install?

It depends—pre-built Raspberry Pi images simplify setup, and Docker containers are available for easier deployment. Basic technical knowledge (like flashing an SD card) is helpful but not mandatory for most users.

? Is it a good alternative to Samsung SmartThings?

Yes—if you prioritize local control and privacy over cloud-based features. Unlike SmartThings, WebThings keeps data local, though it may have fewer pre-built integrations for niche devices.

? Is it completely free?

Yes—WebThings Gateway is open-source (MPL 2.0 license) and free to use. No hidden costs or subscriptions, though you may need hardware (Raspberry Pi, Zigbee dongle) to run it.

Top Alternatives

Amazon Alexa Smart Home Search Google

Google Home Hub Search Google

Samsung SmartThings Search Google

Tool Info

Pricing Open Source

Category Internet of Things (IoT)

Platform Self-Hosted

Pros

⊕ Privacy-focused (all data stays local)
⊕ No subscription costs
⊕ Open-source (extensible via add-ons)
⊕ Wide device protocol compatibility

Cons

⊖ Requires basic technical setup (e.g., Raspberry Pi configuration)
⊖ Limited cloud integration options (by design)
⊖ Smaller community compared to mainstream IoT gateways