The XBee Hive for Wi-SUN device can run Python applications to perform data processing and decision-making tasks at the edge of the network. This offloads work from XBee devices, reduces cloud traffic, and enables real-time actions that improve overall system efficiency.

Python is a powerful, high-level programming language designed for readability and versatility. It supports a wide range of libraries and frameworks that make it ideal for developing applications on edge devices like the XBee Hive for Wi-SUN, where local processing and automation are key.

In this chapter, you will learn how to create, deploy, and execute Python applications on the XBee Hive for Wi-SUN. You will also explore how to use the Digi XBee PyCharm IDE plugin to simplify development, build projects, and manage deployment directly from the IDE. The following pages show you how to run a Python application and test it after deploying it to a XBee Hive for Wi-SUN, as well as how to interact with the device through a terminal: