A smart plug is a power plug and socket (also known as a wall plug, outlet, or electrical connector) which can be fitted between power cords and sockets to function as a remote-controlled power switch. As such, smart plugs can be used to make "dumb" electrical equipment smart, and thereby enable such devices for home automation or building automation purposes.[1] [2]
Smart plugs can, for example, be controlled via a mobile application, a smart home hub or a virtual assistant.[3] [4] Examples of protocols used for communication with smart plugs include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee and Z-Wave. Many smart plugs have a built-in ammeter so that electric energy consumption (measured in kilowatt-hours) of the connected equipment can be monitored.[5] Smart plugs often have a slim profile so as not to hinder access to neighbouring sockets in a wall outlet or power strip.