Abstract: A computer network controlled/monitored automation system for a residence (such as a home, a business, an office, etc.) in which a residential server controls and monitors security and other computer controllable systems within the residence. To provide maximum security, the residential server is configured to deny any inbound connections. The residential server initiates a secure connection to a central system controller's server so that the residential server can receive commands and other communications from the central system controller's server, some of which may have been communicated to the central system controller's server by an authorized remote user/occupant of the residence over the Internet.