# Why Run a Mesh Node?

Learn about the mesh!

A local node is more than a gadget. It strengthens community communication by adding coverage, redundancy, and local routing for everyone nearby.

## How the Public Benefits

- Resilient network without internet or cellular dependency: Nodes route locally by radio and create alternate paths, so communication can continue even when phone or ISP backbones are unavailable.
- Emergency communication: During outages or disasters, local radio links can keep basic coordination available.
- Flexible encrypted communications: Mesh platforms support public channels for open community traffic, private encrypted channels for groups, and private encrypted direct messages between individuals.
- Accessible mobile apps: Both iPhone and Android users can manage nodes and messaging from their phones, using Bluetooth to communicate with the radios.
- Affordable hardware: Many compatible devices are commonly available for under $100.
- No operator license required (USA): On 915 MHz ISM, operation under 1W does not require an amateur radio license, and this is typically plenty of power for local mesh use.
- Easy onboarding: Pairing a node, loading channels, and joining local community resources is straightforward for new users.

## Solar and Off-Grid Operation

Many fixed mesh repeater nodes can run from small solar systems and batteries, with no grid connection required. That means:

- Improved resilience because communication infrastructure can remain active during grid disruptions
- Install options beyond existing infrastructure, including remote locations with clear line-of-sight and reliable sun exposure
- No additional household electric cost for grid power at the node site

## Why Ham Radio Operators Often Love Mesh

- It combines RF experimentation, antenna work, and practical local service.
- It rewards good station design: Elevation, feedline quality, power planning, and interference control.
- It offers an always-on local network that can complement other emergency and community communication practices.
- These communities represent some of the largest mesh networks in the world: Over 21,000 MeshCore nodes globally (including about 14,000 repeaters) and over 32,000 Meshtastic nodes worldwide, with adoption levels comparable to APRS and major amateur IP mesh networks in Europe.

# Getting Involved

Most users only need a companion/client device. If you want to expand mesh coverage in your area, build a repeater/router node. In MeshCore, a repeater is a fixed station that stays in place to relay traffic for the mesh, while a companion is a personal device that travels with you for day-to-day messaging. Meshtastic follows a similar pattern with routers (fixed relay-focused nodes) and clients (user-focused mobile/personal nodes). Contact us on Discord if you want help building or operating a repeater.

## Recommended Hardware

- Heltec LoRa 32 V4 - popular low-cost option and a common first node. Typical price: $25-$35.
- LILYGO T-Echo - portable handheld form factor with an integrated display and battery support. Typical price: $40-$80 depending on configuration.
- RAK4631 Development Board - a common choice for reliable fixed installations with low-power operation and flexible deployment options. Typical combined core + base price: $30-$45.

## Typical Installation Locations

Fixed nodes in strong locations often improve neighborhood coverage for many nearby users, not just the node owner, and even modest elevation can make a big difference. For example, an upstairs attic-window repeater can significantly improve in-home and neighborhood reception, and a few extra feet of height can meaningfully improve overall mesh performance.

- Indoor locations: Attic or top-floor window positions with clear line-of-sight.
- Outdoor home locations: Rooftop mast or chimney mount, balcony rail, garage or shed roof, fences, trees, and old over-the-air TV antenna roof mounts.
- Hosted or remote sites: Hilltop, tower, or shared hosted locations with sun exposure for solar operation, including off-grid sites with no utility infrastructure.
- Mobile deployments: Vehicle-based nodes for mapping and temporary event coverage.

Safety Note: Use a spotter when working on a ladder or on a roof.

## Meshtastic vs MeshCore in CT Mesh

Both platforms are still useful, and many members experiment with both. In the CT Mesh fixed-node community, Meshtastic has gradually been replaced in many deployments by MeshCore as operators have seen stronger day-to-day reliability and broader platform functionality from current MeshCore firmware.

If you are starting fresh and your goal is reliable fixed-node service, MeshCore is often the first recommendation from local operators.

# Learn More

Start with our local guides, then review official project docs and community channels to choose the right platform for your goals.

MeshCore Guides & Tools Official MeshCore Site
Meshtastic Guides & Tools Official Meshtastic Site
Join CT Mesh Discord
Back to CT Mesh