Network protocol
Thread is an IPv6-based, low-power mesh networking technology for Internet of things (IoT) products.[1] The Thread protocol specification is available at no cost; however, this requires agreement and continued adherence to an End-User License Agreement (EULA), which states that "Membership in Thread Group is necessary to implement, practice, and ship Thread technology and Thread Group specifications."[2]
Often used as a transport for Matter (Matter over Thread) the protocol has seen increased use for connecting low-power and battery-operated smart-home devices.[3]