What is Tasmota?
Tasmota is an open-source firmware developed for ESP8266 and ESP32-based smart devices, originally created by Theo Arends in 2017. Its main goal is to allow full local control of smart devices without relying on proprietary cloud services. Tasmota provides a web-based interface for configuration, real-time device monitoring, automation, and integration with various smart home platforms such as Home Assistant.
The name “Tasmota” is derived from “Theo Arends’ Sonoff MQTT OTA” — highlighting its original purpose: replacing the factory firmware on Sonoff devices to enable MQTT communication and Over-the-Air (OTA) updates.
Replacing eWeLink Firmware with Tasmota
Many smart devices from Sonoff and other eWeLink ecosystem brands use the ESP8266 chip, which makes them excellent candidates for firmware replacement. By default, these devices come with a closed-source firmware that connects to the eWeLink cloud platform, requiring an internet connection and an account.
Users often choose to replace the stock firmware with Tasmota to:
Eliminate dependence on the cloud
Increase privacy and local control
Enable greater customization and automation
Avoid vendor lock-in
Extend device compatibility with platforms like Home Assistant
Flashing Tasmota involves connecting the device to a computer via a USB-to-serial adapter and using tools like esptool or Tasmotizer to write the new firmware. Some devices (e.g., Sonoff Basic R3) even support DIY mode, which allows firmware flashing over Wi-Fi, without soldering or opening the device.
Why Replace the Factory Firmware?
Here are the main reasons users opt for Tasmota:
1. Local Control and Privacy
Tasmota runs entirely on the device, with no need for cloud services. This ensures that your automations work even if the internet goes down and your data stays on your local network.
2. Home Assistant Integration
Tasmota is highly compatible with Home Assistant, particularly through MQTT, a lightweight messaging protocol ideal for smart home automation. Once configured, Tasmota devices can be monitored and controlled in real time within Home Assistant, enabling seamless automation across different brands.
3. Advanced Customization
Tasmota provides a rich web UI with options to define GPIO functions (buttons, relays, sensors), automation rules, timers, logging, and more. You can easily tailor how the device works without needing a separate app.
4. OTA Updates
Tasmota supports Over-the-Air updates via its web interface, allowing users to upgrade firmware or switch to newer builds remotely.
Compatibility Considerations
❌ Incompatible with eWeLink
Once a device is flashed with Tasmota, it can no longer be used with the eWeLink app or platform. This is because the original cloud-based firmware is entirely replaced, and the device no longer communicates with eWeLink servers.
This also means you lose access to features dependent on eWeLink, such as remote access via mobile apps, native Alexa/Google Assistant integration (unless added via Home Assistant), or updates from ITEAD.
✅ Compatible with Home Assistant
Tasmota is natively compatible with Home Assistant. Integration is usually done via MQTT, which Home Assistant supports through its built-in broker or an external one like Mosquitto. After initial setup, the Tasmota device appears in Home Assistant and can be used in automations, dashboards, and scenes just like any other entity.
Additionally, Home Assistant's Auto Discovery feature can be enabled in Tasmota, allowing devices to be automatically recognized and configured.
Devices with Pre-installed Tasmota
Some manufacturers, like Nous, available at ewelinkstore.com, now offer devices that come pre-flashed with Tasmota out of the box. These products are intended for users who want the benefits of Tasmota without going through the firmware flashing process themselves. They are ready to use locally and integrate into platforms like Home Assistant with minimal effort. Note: these devices are not compatible with eWeLink platform, but with Home Assistant.
Conclusion
Tasmota offers an open, flexible, and secure alternative to cloud-based smart home device management. By replacing the stock eWeLink firmware with Tasmota, users gain full control over their devices, remove reliance on the cloud, and unlock deep integration with platforms like Home Assistant.
However, this comes at the cost of losing access to the eWeLink ecosystem, including its app, cloud services, and out-of-the-box smart assistant integrations. For those who prioritize privacy, control, and customization, Tasmota is a powerful tool that transforms the smart home experience.