Thread is an open standard for wireless communication designed for easy integration in
enterprise networks and to reliably and securely connect thousands of wireless Internet of Things (IoT) devices in commercial buildings, enabling smart building automation.

Network topology

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Global & Future Proof

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Applications

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Faq

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Benefits For Smart Buildings

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Resources

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Smart Building Network Topology

 

With an IPv6-based foundation, Thread wireless networks seamlessly integrate in existing enterprise networks, making it ideal for future proof and flexible building automation. 

 

There is no need to install, secure and maintain a separate network for the control of IoT devices (like lighting or HVAC systems). Thread is a fully transparent and secure extension to the building’s IP network, allowing for low-power or battery-operated devices, and forming a mesh between all devices on its network to improve reliability and extend its reach with each device that is added. All IP-based devices, including Thread devices, can potentially be controlled and monitored from a single Building Management System (BMS).

 

 

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Applications

 

Many existing building automation platforms have converted, or are in the process of converting, to IP-based solutions. This moves them away from having to rely on their own proprietary network architectures to using the flexibility of IP-networks, including Thread’s low power mesh networking technology. Thread’s IP-based network infrastructure can be used for multiple application protocols simultaneously.. Devices using different application protocols share and extend the same mesh network, increasing reliability and enhancing reach of the network.

 

Thread allows the familiarity and flexibility of an IP-based infrastructure to extend to domains that were previously independent silos, like lighting, climate systems and access control. Know-how, cost and design can therefore be focused on one type of network technology. Architecting, designing, installing, and maintaining networking needs for domains such as lighting, climate management and access control is greatly simplified by converging all network needs into one, IP-based foundation. 

 

Some of the Building Automation and IoT standards that offer an IP-based solution based on Thread are:

Dali           KNX

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Benefits for Smart Buildings

Thread is based on IPv6 (the Internet Protocol), making it the only wireless, low power, mesh networking technology that seamlessly integrates into an enterprise network while ensuring network security by using end-to-end encryption from the cloud to an individual device. Neither hubs nor gateways are needed to translate traffic when connecting to an IP-based building management system or cloud service, thereby eliminating possible security risks or single points of failure. 

Since Thread is IP based, it leverages proven security and encryption technologies that have been in use for decades and are continuously improved and maintained. IT planners and system architects can also extend the use of security certificates to previously non-IP based devices, like lighting, climate systems and access control devices. 

Thread’s IP network is not tied to specific application domains or device types, it allows for very easy (re)configuration of the network. New devices can be added, or devices can be replaced or assigned new properties, without the need for a complete overhaul of the network infrastructure.

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Global & Future Proof

Thread is based on existing technologies in all its layers: from routing, packeting, and security to its wireless radio technology. This leads to familiarity in usage and configuration by IT professionals, leveraging proven technologies to ensure it integrates well with existing infrastructure. Thread integrates familiar technologies like DHCP and DNS, so administrators feel immediately at home when managing the network. Furthermore, it eases the process of certification and compliance with (governmental) guidelines.


Thread uses IEEE 802.15.4 radio technology on the 2.4 GHz spectrum, which can be deployed worldwide. This enables large scale production and ease of installation, as the same devices and network technologies can be used in all regions. 


Thread is not restricted to one particular set of applications or usage protocols. It doesn’t require IT professionals to set up a new network infrastructure when the need for a new type of application arises, or when the required functionality of an existing application changes. 


Similar to Wi-Fi, with its broad range of devices, Thread is an open standard that is not tied to a specific manufacturer, making it future proof and not limited by one company’s or platforms market strategies or product roadmap. This minimizes the risk of incompatibilities and proprietary adaptations that often require extensive debugging time and higher maintenance costs.

FAQ

How Is Thread Different From Other “Low Energy” Solutions?

What Is Thread?

Which Commercial Applications Can Benefit From Thread?

What Application Protocols Does Thread Support For Commercial Buildings?

How Does Thread Integrate With Other Building Automation Standards?

How Does Thread Handle Large Managed Networks?

How Does Thread Support Network Roaming?

How Does Thread Ease Network Installation And Commissioning For Commercial Applications And Environments?

How Does Thread Offer Analytics And Monitoring?

Can Thread Be Integrated Into An IPv4-Based Network?