Links and Guides
Links and Guides - Mesh Networking Resources
Getting Started Recommendations
For Beginners: Start with Meshtastic - it has the most user-friendly mobile apps and largest community support.
For Technical Users: Consider MeshCore for structured deployments or Reticulum for maximum flexibility.
For Sydney Locals: Connect with NSWMesh.au to join the local amateur radio mesh networking community.
Hardware Considerations: Many LoRa development boards work across multiple platforms, so you can experiment with different firmware options on the same hardware.
Meshtastic
Open source, off-grid mesh network using inexpensive LoRa radios for long range communication. Features automatic mesh routing, GPS location sharing, and mobile apps for Android/iOS. Perfect for hiking, camping, and emergency communications.
Links:
- Website: https://meshtastic.org/
- GitHub: https://github.com/meshtastic
- Documentation: https://meshtastic.org/docs/
- Community Forum: https://meshtastic.discourse.group/
MeshCore
Multi-platform system for secure text communications using LoRa hardware. Features lightweight multi-hop routing, web-based configuration, and multiple firmware types. Focuses on emergency response, tactical security, and IoT sensor networks.
Links:
- Website: https://meshcore.co.uk/
- GitHub: https://github.com/ripplebiz/MeshCore
- Discord Community: Available via MeshCore website
Reticulum
Cryptography-based networking stack for building networks with LoRa, Packet Radio, WiFi and more. Runs completely in userland with no kernel modules required. Supports mixed media networks and has strong encryption built-in.
Links:
- Website: https://reticulum.network/
- GitHub: https://github.com/markqvist/Reticulum
- Documentation: https://markqvist.github.io/Reticulum/manual/
NSWMesh.au - Sydney Mesh Users Group
Sydney-based mesh networking community building resilient communications infrastructure. Features live network maps, statistics dashboard, and weekly technical nets for local operators.
Links:
- Website: https://wiki.nswmesh.au/
- Store: https://hivemesh.au/
- Live Map: https://map.nswmesh.au/map
- Statistics Dashboard: https://dash.nswmesh.au/ (user: guest, pass: guest)
Comparison Summary
Meshtastic - Optimized for smaller local networks working over LoRa and MQTT
- Best for: Casual users, hiking groups, simple messaging
- Easiest to get started with mobile apps
- Large existing community and device ecosystem
MeshCore - Advanced network features with cutting-edge functionalities like static path optimization
- Best for: Structured networks, technical users, IoT integration
- Newer project with active development
- Focus on lightweight, scalable routing
Reticulum - General purpose networking stack that can scale beyond small local networks
- Best for: Advanced users, mixed media networks, custom applications
- Most flexible and powerful
- Requires more technical knowledge
NSWMesh.au - Local community resource
- Best for: Sydney-area networking, amateur radio integration
- Active local mesh network with real-world deployment
- Great for learning from experienced operators