GL.iNet GL-S20 Thread Border Router IoT Gateway with PoE

GL-S20 is a compact, cost-efficient Thread Border Router designed for fast and simple IoT deployment. It supports Thread 1.3, 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi (150 Mbps) and Ethernet for building a Thread network and connecting it to the internet, with Wi-Fi to Ethernet failover to keep everything online. Built on the high-performance ESP32-S3 (with ESP32-H2 as the radio co-processor) and fully compatible with FreeRTOS, it delivers ultra-low power consumption and steadfast performance.

With PoE (IEEE 802.3af), GL-S20 takes power and data over a single Ethernet cable, so you can install it where there are no power sockets without extra electrical infrastructure. A wall-mount kit is included, and the lightweight 76 × 76 × 25 mm design blends into any space. It can operate as a Thread Border Router or a Thread Router, and its self-healing mesh automatically reconfigures around a failed node to keep your IoT network solid.

Key features

• Thread 1.3 border router: bridges your LAN and Thread mesh; flexibly operates as a Thread Border Router or Thread Router as your network evolves.
• Self-healing network: if a Thread router fails unexpectedly, the network reconfigures automatically via a neighbouring node.
• PoE support: power and data over one cable (IEEE 802.3af), simplifying installation and saving on electrical work.
• Wi-Fi to Ethernet failover: keeps the gateway connected for optimal performance and reliability.
• Built on FreeRTOS: the de facto standard kernel for microcontrollers, with a broad community and ever-growing add-on libraries.
• Easy installation: wall-mount kit included; supports BLE 5.0 alongside Thread and 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi.

Works with

• All routers
• The networking range

Frequently asked questions

What does a Thread border router do?

It bridges a Thread mesh network of low-power IoT devices to your LAN and the internet. GL-S20 as a Thread Border Router links your LAN and other GL-S20s functioning as Thread routers, giving you a robust, scalable network to manage all your IoT devices.

What happens if part of the mesh fails?

GL-S20's self-healing capability keeps the network resilient: if one Thread router fails unexpectedly, the network reconfigures automatically using a neighbouring Thread router, so the connection stays solid.

How do I power it?

Either over USB-C (5V/1A) or via PoE to IEEE 802.3af, which carries power and data on a single Ethernet cable. Consumption is under 3 W on DC and under 7 W on PoE.

Building a Thread or Matter-ready IoT estate? Call 0333 242 1314 or email sales@clisecure.com — we'll help you plan the roll-out.