What different types of remotely controlled light switches exist?
I've seen every type of "home automation light switch" system, but they all require some sort of "hub" by a company. Some communicate wirelessly and others do not. They also have varying levels of security.



If you are still against a hub, there is one more option you have:



Solid state relays. You can wire them inline before all your lights, then put an arduino with it. Example: http://www.instructables.com/id/Arduino-Controlled-Relay-Box/?ALLSTEPS

However you will not have physical switches any more- you will need to replace them all with some sort of momentary switch which ties into the arduino and relays.