InstantIoT runs in one of two modes. They use the same widgets, the same library, the same DSL. Only the connection between your phone and your hardware changes.
This page helps you pick the right one for what you’re building.
Choose quickly
- Use Direct Mode when you are interacting with one device from one phone
- Use Server Mode when you are running a system of devices and want to control them from a single dashboard.
Direct Mode
Your device (ESP32, Arduino…) creates its own Wi-Fi network (SoftAP).
Your phone connects directly to it. Communication happens locally between the phone and the device.
What it is for
Direct Mode is designed for single-device interaction.
Use it when:
- You are testing a sensor or actuator on your desk
- You want to quickly control a device (LED, relay, motor…) from your phone
- You are building or debugging a prototype
- You are demonstrating a project without relying on existing infrastructure
What it gives you
- No router or external network required
- Works anywhere (bench, car, outdoors…)
- Instant setup: power the device and connect
- No backend, no configuration
What to know
- One device per session
- One phone connected at a time
- Your phone joins the device’s Wi-Fi (it disconnects from other networks while in use)
- No persistence: state is lost when the device reboots
Server Mode
Run InstantIoT Server on a local machine (e.g. a Raspberry Pi or your computer).
Devices and phones connect to the same network and communicate through the server.
What it is for
Server Mode is designed for multi-device systems.
Use it when:
- You have multiple ESPs (e.g. different rooms, zones, or components)
- You want to monitor or control everything from a single dashboard
- You need data logging or history
- More than one user needs access
- Your system must run continuously (24/7)
What it gives you
- Central coordination of multiple devices
- Persistent state and data storage
- Multi-user access
- Devices and UI stay in sync
- Runs continuously, independent of any single phone
What to know
- Requires running a local server (Raspberry Pi, PC, etc.)
- Devices and phones must be on the same network (or reachable network)
Side by side
|
Aspect |
Direct Mode |
Server Mode |
|---|---|---|
|
Mental model |
One device |
System of devices |
|
Connection |
Phone ↔ ESP (direct Wi-Fi) |
Devices + phones ↔ serve |
|
Setup |
No infrastructure |
Requires local server |
|
Project life |
Active during session |
Runs continuously (24/7) |
|
Data |
In memory only |
Stored and persistent |
|
Access |
One phone, one device |
Multiple users, multiple devices |
|
Reach |
Within device Wi-Fi range |
Network-wide |
|
Best for |
Testing, control, demos |
Long-running systems |
