Upgrading my primary WiFi router in existing HomeKit home

I have been running my smart home through a 5th generation AirPort Extreme in bridge mode and 2nd generation AirPort Express extending the wireless network. I have multiple HomePods (3 minis and an OG full sized), an Apple TVHD, an Honeywell thermostat (it’s now Resideo), a couple humidifiers, and several Meross bulbs and switches.

There are 4 of us in the house and we have a number of computers, iPhones, and iPads. Lately I have found that the WiFi 4 has just been slow (especially when multiple people are streaming content) and the AirPorts have been dropping devices so I want to upgrade to a Linksys WiFi 6 mesh router.


How do I transition my smart home over to the new router?

Can I simply plug my new main router into the IP gateway and use the same Network name?

Can I use the same SSID for the main router as the Extreme?

Do I need to reset each device to the new network after setting up the new router(s)?

Should I just start from scratch and set up a new network?


HomePod, 17

Posted on Nov 4, 2023 3:03 PM

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Nov 8, 2023 1:18 PM in response to Jeremy Dunham

You should be able to use the same SSID and password for the new router without reconfiguring any of your devices. HomeKit devices should obtain your wireless credentials via iCloud Keychain, but if you want to set up a new SSID you would need to allow time for this data to propagate before removing or changing settings on the old router. You probably want to avoid having to rebuild the home from scratch.


tt2

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Upgrading my primary WiFi router in existing HomeKit home

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