Thread Border Router vs Mesh Extender: Key Functions and Differences

Introduction

Thread networks rely on specific devices like Thread border routers and mesh extenders to ensure seamless connectivity and extended range. While both are integral to a Thread network, their roles and functions differ significantly. This guide delves into the unique characteristics, functions and differences between Thread border routers and mesh extenders to help you choose the right solution for your IoT setup.

Thread is a wireless mesh networking technology developed for the smart home eco-system. It allows smart devices to be connected and controlled in a smart home. It is designed to be a reliable, secure and scalable protocol which supports a large number of devices within a single network.

The key features of Thread technology are its low power consumption, mesh topology, IPv6 protocol support, security, and interoperability. Thread devices are easy to install and configure using a smartphone app.

Refer to the Matter over Thread architecture with its functional elements.

Thread Mesh Extender

It is a device that extends the range of a Thread network by creating a new “hop” for network traffic to travel through. A mesh extender functions as a bridge between two or more Thread devices. It allows them to communicate even if they are not directly in the Line of Sight range of each other.

Examples of Thread Mesh extenders:

• Nest Wifi Mesh Router from Google
• nRF5340 from Nordic Semiconductor
• STM32WB from STMicroelectronics

Thread Border Router (TBR)

It is a device that acts as a gateway between the Thread network and the internet. It provides a secure connection to cloud-based services and allows remote access to the Thread network. The TBR is also responsible for managing the Thread network and its devices, assigning IP addresses, and handling security protocols.

Examples of Thread Border Routers (TBRs):

• EFR32MG21 Thunderboard from Silicon Labs: Supports Ethernet and WiFi to connect with the internet, supports Thread specifications 1.2, 1.3, and 1.4, and can be integrated with AWS and Microsoft Azure.
• Other TBRs include CC1352P from Texas Instruments and RA6M4 from Renesas.

The main difference between a Thread Mesh Extender and a Thread Border Router (TBR) is as follows:

• A Thread Border Router connects the Thread network to the internet and also manages the network, whereas a Thread Mesh Extender simply extends the range of the Thread network.

Conclusion

Understanding the functions and differences between Thread border routers and mesh extenders is crucial for optimizing your Thread network. Border routers provide external internet connectivity and IP routing, while mesh extenders focus on enhancing coverage within the network. By selecting the appropriate devices, you can ensure a reliable and efficient IoT environment.