If you see a 'Thread Border Router Required' alert on your iPhone or iPad

The accessory you are trying to set up requires a Thread border router and your home hub does not support Thread.

Set up a Thread border router or a Thread-enabled Apple TV 4K or HomePod

Set up a supported third-party Thread border router or set up one of these devices as a home hub: 

  • Apple TV 4K (3rd generation) Wi-Fi + Ethernet
  • Apple TV 4K (2nd generation)
  • HomePod (2nd generation)
  • HomePod mini

Other Apple TV and HomePod devices are not compatible with Thread network.

If you still need help setting up your accessory, contact Apple Support.

If you already set up a Thread-enabled home hub

Follow these steps. After each step, try to pair your accessory again. 

  1. Turn your home hub device off then on.
  2. Try using a device that's signed in to the Apple ID account that was used to set up the Home app.
  3. If your home hub is an Apple TV that's connected to the internet with an Ethernet cable, connect your Apple TV to Wi-Fi instead. Connect it to the same Wi-Fi network that your iPhone or iPad is on.
  4. Check that your Wi-Fi is connected and there is no interference. 
  5. Reset the network settings on your iPhone or iPad that has the error message. 
  6. If you use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) or other third-party security software, learn what to do. 

If you still need help setting up your accessory, contact Apple Support.

If the error message includes third-party HomeKit accessories

Follow these steps first. Then check the following:

  1. Turn your accessories that support Thread off then on again. 
  2. Open the accessory manufacturer's app, and check that the accessory is connected. 

If you still need help setting up your accessory, contact Apple Support.

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