tried doing near the router last week

[torn spear]

Near != via

Just enabling pairing lets the device pick. Enabling pairing through that router only allows it to join via that router.

For ZHA you can do that in the router device page. For Z2M it's a drop-down.

[plush tiger]

what do you think I ment word meanings arnt that solid, I have like 40 other devices paired via that router

[torn spear]

Near just means physically close, and the device still picks

There's a reason for my suggestion, but ... you don't have to listen to me, that's fine 😉

[plush tiger]

what do you think I'm saying bro

I'm saying I already tried it im just not as anal on words as you are