Building automation, also known as building management system (BMS) or building energy management system, is the automatic centralized control of a buildings HVAC, electrical, lighting, shading, access control, security systems, and other interrelated systems. It is the use of automation and control systems to monitor and control building-wide systems, such as HVAC, lighting, alarms, and security access and cameras. Building automation systems (BAS) are often referred to by several different names, including “building control systems,” and even “smart buildings” .

Building automation systems control the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) and other building systems, and they can be configured to meet the specific needs of a building and its occupants. BAS technology allows centralized control over a building’s systems via networked electronic devices, and it streamlines decision-making and saves time.

Building automation systems have many benefits, such as energy savings, cost savings, and sustained environments. They can also be used to reduce or eliminate energy waste, and occupants can gain greater control over their living spaces via app-based room controls.

Building automation systems consist of several elements, including software, field controllers, a communication bus, network controllers, and downstream end-devices for occupant control. With the growing spectrum of capabilities and connections to the Internet of Things, building automation systems were repeatedly reported to be vulnerable, allowing hackers and cybercriminals to attack their components.