Learn About Mesh Networking
Mesh networking might sound complicated, but the core idea is simple: devices talk directly to each other instead of relying on cell towers or internet. Here's everything you need to know to understand what we're building.
What is a Mesh Network?
Imagine you want to send a message to a friend across town, but you don't have cell service. In a mesh network, your message can "hop" from device to device until it reaches your friend - like passing a note through a chain of people.
Each device in the network helps relay messages for everyone else. The more people join, the farther messages can travel and the more reliable the network becomes.
What Makes This Special?
Works Without Infrastructure
No cell towers, no internet, no monthly bills. Just small radio devices talking to each other directly.
Incredibly Long Range
Unlike WiFi or Bluetooth that only work nearby, these radios can reach miles away - sometimes 10+ miles with good placement!
Low Power
A device can run for weeks or months on a small battery. Some nodes with solar panels can run forever.
Community Owned
No company controls the network. It belongs to everyone who participates. No one can shut it down or monetize your data.
How Do Messages Travel?
Multi-Hop Routing
When you send a message, it doesn't go straight to the recipient. Instead, it hops from device to device, each one bringing it closer to its destination. The network figures out the best path automatically.
Example: You're in downtown trying to reach someone on the east side. Your message might hop through 3 devices in between before reaching them.
Two Types of Nodes
Companion Radios: These are personal devices you carry around. They send and receive your messages but don't relay for others (to save battery).
Repeater Nodes: These are installed in fixed locations (rooftops, hills) and relay messages for everyone. They're the backbone of the network.
Why Would I Use This?
Emergencies & Disasters
When earthquakes, fires, or storms knock out cell towers and internet, mesh networks keep working. Stay in touch with family, neighbors, and emergency services when it matters most.
Outdoor Adventures
Going hiking, camping, or mountain biking in areas without cell coverage? Bring a mesh device to stay connected with your group, share locations, and call for help if needed.
Community Building
Create local communication infrastructure that belongs to your community. Perfect for neighborhoods, farms, events, or anywhere you want independent communication.
Privacy & Independence
Communicate without corporate surveillance or data collection. Your messages travel through community-owned devices, not corporate servers.
What is LoRa?
LoRa stands for "Long Range" - it's the radio technology that makes this possible. Think of it like walkie-talkies, but smarter and with much better range.
Amazing Range
In the right conditions, LoRa signals can travel 5-15+ miles. Compare that to WiFi (300 feet) or Bluetooth (30 feet)!
Low Power
LoRa uses very little electricity. A small battery can power a device for weeks of normal use.
Free to Use
LoRa operates on unlicensed radio frequencies. Anyone can use it without permits or fees.
Not for Everything
LoRa is great for text messages and location data. It's NOT good for phone calls, video, or large files. It trades speed for range.
What is MeshCore?
MeshCore is the software (firmware) that runs on the devices. It's an open-source alternative to Meshtastic - another popular mesh networking system.
Both use the same hardware, so you can easily switch between them. MeshCore focuses on simplicity and battery life, while Meshtastic offers more features and a larger community.
What Can I Do on the Mesh?
- Send messages to other people on the network
- Share your location with friends or family
- Create group chats for coordinating activities
- Monitor the network to see active nodes and coverage
- Run local services like bulletin boards or data sharing
Remember: This is for text and data, not voice calls or video. Think of it like texting, not phone calls.
How Much Does It Cost?
Initial Hardware: $25-60
You need a LoRa device (small radio with battery and antenna). Prices vary based on features like GPS, screens, and build quality.
No Monthly Fees
After buying the hardware, there are NO ongoing costs. No subscriptions, no data plans, no service fees. Just free communication.
Optional Upgrades
You can buy better antennas ($10-30) or solar panels for permanent installations, but these are completely optional.
Ready to Get Started?
Step-by-Step Guide
Our Getting Started guide walks you through everything from buying hardware to sending your first message.
Get Started →Want More Details?
If you're technically curious and want to dive deeper into how everything works, check out our technical documentation.
Technical Info →Join the Community
Connect with other mesh users, get help, and learn about events in the Tri-Cities area.
Connect →