I am about to migrate to hubitat C8 elevation pro and wondering if pairing Z wave devices is the same as with ezlo or vera i.e. bringing the controller very close to the device to be paired. Also, does the hubitat need to be used with ethernet?
I'm no expert, but no, you don't have to bring the controller very close to the hub.
While ethernet is better, Hubitat can also do WiFi, but not at the same time-one or the other.
Pairing with no security used to be recommended, but the current thinking is that S2 makes for more accurate (?) communications, re: error checking, or something like that.
Of course, if you want to pair long range Z-wave devices, that's another topic, but it doesn't seem you are.
Don't forget to exclude the devices first on the old hub(s).
Good Luck.
This is discouraged. You want to pair the device in it's final resting place so that it falls into correct spot within mesh.
This too but you can exclude with Hubitat Hub. Put device in pairing mode and choose Exclude with Hubitat. I do this even with new devices
Also, most devices seem to reset to factory after excluding, but is best practice resetting after exclusion?
No, put the hub where you want it and pair the devices in place starting from closest to the hub moving outward (in general). Main point is don't start with further away devices since they might need the closer devices as a hop.
Only if you want to be sure it is reset to defaults. Exclusion does not have to reset the settings and many newer Zooz devices actually retain settings through an exclude.
Here are the docs about Z-wave exclusion, inclusion and Smart Start. I would suggest checking out SmartStart as well, if you have any devices with the QR code on them it can make it even easier.
Here is another doc all about adding devices: Add Device | Hubitat Documentation
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Welcome to the Hubitat community!
Ethernet is typically more reliable than Wifi, no matter if you are talking about Hubitat or other device types. My advice is to use ethernet if possible. If you do use ethernet, it is recommended to set an IP address reservation in your router so Hubitat is always found at the same IP address. (Don't mess with the Hubitat networking page unless absolutely necessary)
Like the others have said, it is best to pair in-place if at all possible, starting from closest to furthest away, and line powered (repeating devices) before battery operated devices.
That said, there are going to be some devices that won't play nice, some older Schlage door locks are notorious for wanting to be paired very close to the hub. Some sensors are also known to be picky as well. So try in-place pairing, and if that doesn't work pair the stubborn devices close to the hub.
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