How does a mesh network work?
Discover how MeshCore works without internet, mobile network, or central infrastructure. Simple explanation of mesh network technology
What is a mesh network?
A mesh network is a network where devices communicate directly with each other and relay messages through other devices. It works fundamentally different from the internet or mobile networks that depend on central servers, providers, and infrastructure.
In MeshCore, each LoRa radio device uses part of its energy not only to send its own messages, but also to relay messages from others. This creates a self-organizing network that keeps working even if parts fail.
The mesh principle isn't new – it has been used for decades in military communication, IoT networks, and wireless sensors. But MeshCore now makes this technology accessible to everyone as reliable emergency communication.
The difference between traditional and mesh
To understand how a mesh network works, let's first compare it to traditional networks:
Traditional network (internet/mobile)
In a traditional network, all messages go through central points: routers, cell towers, servers. If those fail, nothing works anymore.
You → Cell Tower → Provider Server → Cell Tower → Receiver
Mesh network (MeshCore)
In a mesh network, messages go directly between devices, or through intermediate devices. There is no central point that can fail.
You → Neighbor A → Neighbor B → Neighbor C → Receiver
How messages travel through the network
A message in a mesh network travels via "hops" – jumps from device to device. Each device that relays a message is called a repeater or relay.
Step 1: You send a message
You type a message on your smartphone connected via Bluetooth to your LoRa radio device. The device broadcasts the message via radio waves with a range of approximately 1 km (urban area) to 10+ km (open field).
Step 2: First hop to nearest device
A nearby device receives the message. It checks: "Is this message for me? No? Then I'll relay it." The device automatically forwards the message to other devices within its range.
Step 3: Further hops via repeaters
The message hops further through intermediate devices. Each device checks if the destination is in range. If not, it forwards to other devices. MeshCore has a default maximum of 3 hops (this prevents messages from circulating endlessly).
Step 4: Message reaches the receiver
Once a device receives the message with a matching address, forwarding stops. The receiver gets a notification on their smartphone. The entire process usually takes only a few seconds.
Key characteristics of mesh networks
Self-organizing
The network organizes itself automatically. No configuration needed. Devices find each other and determine the best routes.
Self-healing
If a device fails or is out of range, the network automatically finds an alternative route. There is no single point of failure.
Scalability
The more devices join, the stronger the network becomes. Each new device is a potential repeater that extends the range.
Decentralized
No central server, no provider, no government that can shut it down. The network belongs to the users themselves.
Energy-efficient
LoRa radio technology uses extremely little energy. Devices last days to weeks on a single battery, even while relaying messages.
Extend range with repeaters
By strategically placing repeaters (for example on tall buildings or hills), you can enormously extend the network's range.
Benefits of mesh network technology
Works without internet
No dependence on providers, internet cables, or cell towers. Perfect for emergency situations.
Robust and reliable
The network keeps working even if parts fail. Automatic route adjustment ensures continuity.
No subscription costs
One-time device purchase, then completely free use. No monthly costs.
Privacy guaranteed
Private messages are end-to-end encrypted. Nobody can read them, not even the repeaters.
Growing coverage
The network gets stronger as more people join. In the Netherlands, coverage is growing rapidly.
Long battery life
LoRa devices last days to weeks on a single battery. Ideal for prolonged crisis situations.
Practical examples
How a mesh network works in practice:
Example 1: Neighborhood network during power outage
In a neighborhood, 15 people have a MeshCore device. During a power outage, the internet fails, but the mesh network still works. Residents can reach each other to share information, ask for help, or coordinate.
Person A lives on one side of the neighborhood, person B on the other. Direct range: 0 km. Via repeaters in the area: reachable via 2 hops. Time: 3 seconds.
Example 2: Festival without mobile coverage
At a festival, the mobile network is overloaded. Friends have MeshCore devices and can find each other via direct messages. Location sharing works perfectly because the mesh network doesn't get overloaded.
You send: "At the red tent". The message goes directly to your friends without going through the overloaded mobile network.
Example 3: Evacuation during flood
During a flood, cell towers are damaged. People with MeshCore can communicate via the mesh network where they are, if they need help, and coordinate who goes where.
Family A reports: "We are stuck in the attic, address: Main Street 12". The message reaches helpers via nearby repeaters.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need internet for a mesh network?
No, absolutely not. A mesh network works completely independent of the internet. It uses LoRa radio signals that go directly between devices.
How many devices are needed for a mesh network?
Technically, two devices can already form a mesh network. But the more devices, the greater the range and the more reliable the network. In the Netherlands, the network is growing rapidly.
What happens if a repeater fails?
The network automatically finds an alternative route. That's the beauty of mesh technology: there is no single point of failure. If one device fails, the rest keeps working.
Is it difficult to set up a mesh network?
No, it's surprisingly simple. Buy a LoRa radio device, install the free app, pair via Bluetooth, done. The network organizes itself automatically.
Can everyone read my messages in a mesh network?
Private messages are end-to-end encrypted. Only you and the receiver can read them. Channel messages (public groups) are visible to everyone in that channel.
What is the maximum number of hops?
MeshCore default is set to a maximum of 3 hops. This prevents messages from circulating endlessly and overloading the network. In practice, 3 hops are sufficient for local communication.
Ready to become part of the mesh network?
Now that you understand how a mesh network works, you see why it's so suitable as reliable emergency communication. No central servers that fail, no providers that go offline, no government that can shut it down.
Become part of the growing MeshCore network in the Netherlands.