A system, method, and device for automatic master control detection are provided. In embodiments, automatic master control detection may be utilized to determine a primary control device in a multi-control furniture environment, such as an automated furniture environment. In some aspects, a control device is initially programmed with a particular primary ID. Additionally, such control devices include an alternate ID that may replace the primary ID if it is determined that a conflict exists between the control device and another control device in the same network environment. In one embodiment of the invention, a control device/box/component communicates a startup query upon activation, which automatically signals to other devices in the network that it is the first control started and will retain master control status having the primary ID. Recipient control devices may process a received startup query as an indication to change their primary ID to an alternate ID.