I'm trying to purchsae the Xbee module to relay micro p information wirelessly to my home network, but I'm having trouble understanding the basic functioning of such a device. For example, can the Xbee Module interact directly with my home router or home computer? Can someone please explain how this device works at a fundamental level? I'm a beginner, and the technical jargon in the instructions makes no sense to me. Thanks.

 

The XBee modules are sort of similar to dial up modems. They even use a variation of the AT command set. They don't connect directly to your home router, they do connect serially to RS232 and USB ports via an adapter board that is part of the XBee evaluation kit. If Home Automation is your thing the XBee S2 (ZigBee) is probably a better choice.