Mesh network coverage in the Netherlands
Where can you use MeshCore in the Netherlands? View the current coverage of the mesh network and discover how you contribute to expansion
How is coverage in the Netherlands?
The MeshCore mesh network is a decentralized network built entirely by users. There are no providers, no telecom operator cell towers, no central infrastructure. Coverage depends on how many people participate and where they place repeaters.
LocalMesh is the Dutch citizen initiative that promotes MeshCore and helps people expand the network in the Netherlands. On this page you'll learn where the network is currently active, how coverage works, and how you can help improve coverage in your region.
Where is MeshCore active in the Netherlands now?
The network grows every day. This is the current situation per region:
Randstad (Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague)
The Randstad has the best coverage in the Netherlands with active communities, many repeaters, and strong connections between cities.
Utrecht and surroundings
Utrecht has an emerging community with growing interest. The network is starting with enthusiastic early adopters in the city.
North Brabant (Eindhoven, Breda, Tilburg)
Brabant sees rapid growth with active users in larger cities. Connections between cities are getting stronger.
Groningen and Friesland
The north has enthusiastic early adopters. Coverage is mainly in cities, rural areas following.
Limburg
Limburg has smaller communities with growing interest. Ideal region to join early and help build.
Rural areas
Villages and rural areas still have limited coverage. Great opportunity to be first to set up a local network!
The network grows exponentially
New users join every day. Each new repeater improves coverage for everyone. The beauty of a mesh network: the more people participate, the stronger the network becomes. Your participation makes an immediate difference for coverage in your neighborhood.
How does coverage work in a mesh network?
MeshCore works fundamentally differently than mobile networks or WiFi. Coverage depends on four factors:
1. Number of active devices
Each LoRa radio device is a node in the network. The more devices, the greater the coverage. In densely populated areas like the Randstad, coverage is therefore best.
2. Placement of repeaters
Repeaters are devices that are permanently on and forward messages. Strategically placed repeaters at high locations (rooftops, apartment buildings) greatly increase range.
3. Geographic circumstances
Buildings, hills, and obstacles affect range. In open areas, range is 10+ km, in built-up areas ~1km between devices. The network automatically finds the best route.
4. Network topology
A mesh network is smart: messages can travel via multiple routes. If one connection fails, the network finds an alternative path. The more links, the more reliable.
This means coverage is not static. It changes constantly as people turn devices on and off, add new repeaters, and the network grows. See the live network map for current coverage.
Benefits of the Dutch mesh network
Independent of providers
No KPN, Vodafone, or T-Mobile needed. The network belongs to all of us, built by users.
Completely free
No subscription, no monthly costs. One-time purchase, lifetime use.
Grows exponentially
Every new user strengthens the network. Early adopters see the network grow before their eyes.
Local communities
Active Telegram groups per region help each other with installation, repeaters, and expansion.
Easy to contribute
You don't need to be a technical expert. Anyone can help improve the network by participating.
Reliable in crisis
Works when internet and mobile networks fail. Essential for emergency communication.
The role of repeaters in coverage
Repeaters are the backbone of the mesh network. They are on 24/7 and strengthen coverage:
Why are repeaters so important?
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Bridges between areas: Repeaters connect neighborhoods, districts, and cities with each other
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Increased range: A repeater at a high point (roof, apartment) reaches 10+ km in open areas
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Reliability: Multiple repeaters mean multiple routes, thus better reliability
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24/7 available: Even when your mobile device is off, the network keeps working
Want to place a repeater in your neighborhood? See the guide on Join. It costs from €50 and makes a big difference for local coverage.
Frequently asked questions about coverage
Is there coverage in my region?
Check the network map at localmesh.nl/kaart/ to see where repeaters and users are active in the Netherlands. If there's no coverage in your region yet, you can start yourself! The network always begins with early adopters.
How far does the network reach?
Direct range between two devices is ~1km in built-up areas and 10+ km in open fields. Via repeaters, messages can travel much further. In the Randstad, there are already connections between cities through strategically placed repeaters.
Can I use MeshCore without nearby repeaters?
Yes! You can communicate directly with other devices within ~1km. And when repeaters are placed later, you automatically benefit from the larger network. Start small, grow with the network.
How many people use MeshCore in the Netherlands?
The network in the Netherlands is growing rapidly with new users daily. LocalMesh doesn't keep central registration (privacy), but the Telegram community and network map show that growth is exponential.
How do I help improve coverage in my region?
The best way is to place a repeater at a high point (roof, attic). Additionally: tell others about MeshCore, organize a neighborhood network, and share your experiences in the Telegram community.
Does MeshCore work across borders?
MeshCore is international technology that works worldwide. There are users in Belgium and Germany. Theoretically, border regions can make connections across borders, depending on repeaters and range.
Help build national coverage
The Dutch MeshCore network grows every day. Your participation makes an immediate difference for coverage in your neighborhood and beyond. Whether you live in the Randstad with excellent coverage, or in a rural area where you start as the first – everyone contributes to a stronger, more independent communication network in the Netherlands.
Become part of the growing mesh network in the Netherlands.