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How to Link eero Routers with HomeKit

Updated · Standard formula, shown below

This guide walks you through adding your eero mesh Wi-Fi system to Apple HomeKit, which lets you control your network through the Home app, automate accessories, and apply security features like HomeKit Secure Router. You’ll need an eero system (eero, eero Pro, eero 6, or eero 6+), an Apple device (iPhone, iPad, or Mac) signed into iCloud, and the eero app installed.

What You’ll Need

  • An eero router system (at least one eero device) that is already set up and working.
  • An Apple device with the latest version of iOS, iPadOS, or macOS.
  • An Apple ID signed into iCloud on that device.
  • The eero app (free from the App Store) installed and logged in.
  • A home set up in the Apple Home app (even if it’s just “My Home”).

Step-by-Step

  1. Open the eero app on your Apple device. Make sure you are logged in to the eero account that owns your network.
  2. Tap the menu icon (three lines) in the top-left corner, then tap Settings.
  3. In Settings, look for the HomeKit section. On some versions it appears as “Apple HomeKit” or “HomeKit Secure Router.”
  4. Tap Enable HomeKit or Add to HomeKit. The app will begin the pairing process.
  5. When prompted, choose the home you want to add the eero to (e.g., “My Home”). If you don’t have a home yet, create one in the Home app first.
  6. Scan the HomeKit setup code that appears on the screen. This code is usually displayed in the eero app, or you can find it on the bottom of your eero device. If you have multiple eeros, use the code from the primary eero (the one connected to your modem).
  7. Wait for the pairing to complete. The eero app will show a success message, and the eero will appear in the Home app under “Wi-Fi Routers.”
  8. Open the Apple Home app. Tap the house icon, then tap Home Settings (or the gear icon). Select Wi-Fi Routers (or “Routers” on older versions).
  9. Tap your eero network, then choose a security mode for each accessory: Auto (recommended), Restricted, or No Restriction. Auto allows approved accessories to communicate freely; Restricted blocks most internet access; No Restriction allows everything.
  10. Go back to the eero app and verify that HomeKit is listed as “Enabled” in Settings. You’re done.

Common Mistakes

  • Using the wrong HomeKit code: Each eero has a unique code. Use the one from the primary eero (the one wired to your modem), not a satellite or beacon.
  • Forgetting to update the eero firmware: HomeKit integration requires recent firmware. Check for updates in the eero app under Settings > Software Updates before starting.
  • Not being on the same Wi-Fi network: Your Apple device must be connected to the eero network you’re trying to link, not a guest network or cellular data.
  • Skipping the Home app setup: Even if eero says “paired,” you must configure the router in the Home app to actually use HomeKit Secure Router features.
  • Ignoring the “Home” prompt: If you have multiple homes in HomeKit, make sure you select the correct one. Adding to the wrong home can cause confusion.

Tips

  • Use “Auto” mode for most accessories—it’s the best balance of security and functionality.
  • If you have smart home devices that need local network access (like cameras), set them to “Auto” or “No Restriction” to avoid connectivity issues.
  • Keep your eero app and Apple device software up to date to avoid compatibility problems.
  • If you’re adding a second eero network (like a vacation home), you’ll need to repeat the process for that network.
  • You can rename the eero in HomeKit to something like “Living Room Router” for easier identification.

Troubleshooting

If the pairing fails or the eero doesn’t appear in HomeKit, try these steps in order:

  1. Restart your Apple device and the eero system (unplug the modem and eero, wait 30 seconds, plug them back in).
  2. Check the HomeKit code—make sure you’re scanning the code from the primary eero, not a satellite. The code is often printed on the bottom of the device or shown in the eero app.
  3. Update everything: Ensure your Apple device is on the latest iOS/iPadOS/macOS, and that the eero app is updated. Also check for eero firmware updates.
  4. Reset HomeKit on eero: In the eero app, go to Settings > HomeKit and tap “Reset HomeKit.” Then try enabling it again.
  5. Sign out and back into iCloud on your Apple device, then try again.
  6. If you still see “Not Paired” in the eero app, try removing the eero from the Home app (if it appears) and re-adding it via the eero app.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does HomeKit Secure Router work with all eero models?

HomeKit Secure Router is supported on eero 6, eero 6+, eero Pro 6, eero Pro 6E, and the original eero (with a firmware update). Older eero models may not support it.

Can I link multiple eero networks to the same HomeKit home?

Yes, you can add multiple eero systems to the same home, but each must be paired separately using its own HomeKit code.

Will linking eero to HomeKit slow down my Wi-Fi?

No, HomeKit Secure Router does not reduce speed. It adds security features at the router level without affecting throughput.

Can I remove eero from HomeKit later?

Yes, you can disable HomeKit in the eero app under Settings > HomeKit, or remove the router from the Home app. Note that this will reset HomeKit Secure Router settings.

Do I need an Apple HomePod or Apple TV to use HomeKit Secure Router?

No, a HomePod or Apple TV is not required for basic HomeKit integration, but it is needed for automations and remote access to HomeKit accessories.

What happens if I change my Wi-Fi password after linking?

Your HomeKit accessories will reconnect automatically using the new password, but you may need to re-pair some accessories if they don’t update automatically.

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