Want to make your home smarter but not sure where to start? Don't worry: getting started in the KNX world is easier than you think. On this page, you will learn what to look out for, how a typical KNX project works and why it pays to have a good plan right from the start.
How do I get started with KNX?
Your needs come first
What would you like to automate?
The first step in planning a KNX system is simple: ask yourself which functions you would like to automate in your home.
Would you like the lighting to adjust automatically?
Should the heating respond to your presence?
Are you looking for automated shading?
Or would you prefer to control everything via app or voice command?
You don’t have to decide everything at once. But the more clearly you define your needs, the more precisely your system can be planned later on.
Find a qualified partner
Who plans and installs my KNX system?
KNX is a professional system that is planned and commissioned by certified specialists.
A KNX system integrator or an electrician with KNX expertise will take care of:
- planning the system architecture
- selecting and programming the devices
- integrating them into your building infrastructure
- making adjustments later on if your needs change
As the homeowner or building owner, you decide what should be controlled – the integrator takes care of how it works.
Tip: Talk to your electrical contractor about your smart home plans at an early stage. This allows KNX to be integrated directly into your building design – which is particularly useful if you are planning to use KNX in a new-build project.
Typical project flow
How is a KNX project usually carried out?
A typical KNX project follows these steps:
- Needs analysis: Which rooms and functions should be automated?
- System planning: The integrator designs the system structure and suggests suitable devices.
- Installation: Devices are installed and wired (or connected wirelessly in the case of KNX RF).
- Commissioning: The control system is programmed, tested and documented.
- Handover: You receive an introduction to the system and can start using it straight away.
Even after the project is complete, your integrator remains your point of contact – for any extensions or future adjustments.
Tip: After successful project completion, ask for the ETS project file. It contains all key settings of your KNX installation. With this file, you or another KNX integrator can access and modify the system configuration at any time.
A system that grows with you
Can I start small and expand later?
Yes! KNX is modular and scalable by design. You can begin with just a few functions – such as lighting and heating – and add more devices or rooms later on. Even years down the line, expanding your system is easy.
That makes KNX the ideal solution for anyone who wants to plan with the future in mind.
Key questions at a glance
Checklist for homeowners: Planning your KNX system successfully
Step by step to a connected home – our checklist shows you exactly what to consider when planning a KNX system.
From idea to implementation
What’s the next step?
If you already have a clear idea of what you want – or if you simply want to learn more about KNX – you can:
get advice from a certified KNX system integrator,
read our additional expert articles on building automation,
explore our KNX products in the Online Shop or contact the Elsner Sales Team directly.
As you can see: getting started is easier than you might think – and your future smart home begins right here.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about getting started with KNX
What is KNX used for?
KNX is used to intelligently control functions such as lighting, heating, blinds, ventilation and security technology in a building. All devices communicate via a common system, which makes KNX particularly flexible and future-proof.
You can find more information in our KNX basics.
Is KNX the same as a smart home system?
Yes – but with one important difference: KNX is not a closed system from a single manufacturer, but an open, internationally standardised system approach. This means that you can combine devices from different manufacturers and flexibly adapt or expand the system to suit your needs.
The big advantage: you are not tied to one supplier and are more independent in the long term – for example, when it comes to expansions, spare parts or a system change in the future.
Can I retrofit KNX in an existing house?
Yes, that is possible – for example with KNX RF (radio). This allows many functions to be integrated into old buildings or renovations without having to lay new cables.
You can find out more about KNX RF in our online shop.
How does KNX work from a technical point of view?
KNX devices communicate via a bus line or radio. Sensors (e.g. temperature sensors, push buttons) send information, actuators (e.g. switch modules) carry out actions. Configuration is carried out using software called ETS. You can read more about this in the article ‘KNX Basics: What KNX Is and How It Powers Smart Building Automation’.
Author: Elsner Elektronik Editorial Team | Last updated: 07/2025
