MeshCore network topology
How nodes connect in a mesh network: topology, connection patterns and network structure of MeshCore
What is network topology?
Network topology describes how nodes (devices) in a network are connected to each other. In traditional networks you often have a star topology (all clients connect to one central router) or bus topology (all devices on one line).
In a mesh network like MeshCore we use mesh topology: each device can directly connect with multiple other devices. There is no central hub or server. Every device is equal and can function as a router for others.
This page explains how the MeshCore network topology works, which node types exist, and how connections between nodes are established.
MeshCore node types
Not all nodes in the MeshCore network are the same. There are different types with different roles:
Client node
A regular user node. Sends and receives messages, but doesn't always forward for others. Often mobile.
Router node
A node that actively forwards messages for others. Usually stationary repeater in a good location.
Solar repeater
A router node with solar panel and battery. Completely self-sufficient, ideal for outdoor locations.
Gateway node
A node with internet connection that links the mesh network to online services (optional).
Tracker node
A minimal node that only broadcasts position. No UI, only GPS and radio.
Network structure patterns
MeshCore networks can have different structural patterns, depending on location and node density:
1. Urban mesh network
In cities many nodes are close together. Each node has 5-10 direct neighbors. High redundancy, many alternative routes.
2. Linear rural network
In rural areas nodes are further apart, often along roads or dikes. Linear chain with less redundancy.
3. Hub-and-spoke pattern
A central repeater in good location (hill, tall building) functions as hub. Many nodes connect via this hub.
4. Multi-hop chain
A long chain of repeaters bridges large distances. Each message hops via multiple intermediate nodes.
Become part of the network
Place a repeater and strengthen the MeshCore topology in your region
Start with MeshCore →How nodes connect
Nodes in MeshCore discover each other automatically and build a dynamic topology:
Neighbor discovery
Each node periodically broadcasts a NODEINFO message. Other nodes within range receive this and add the node to their neighbor list. This way each node knows who its direct neighbors are.
Route building
When a node receives a message from further away (via a hop), it remembers the route. When sending a message to that node, the stored route can be used for more efficient routing.
Link quality tracking
Nodes track how reliable the link with each neighbor is (packet loss, SNR). When choosing a route, the best link is preferred. Bad links are automatically avoided.
Benefits of mesh topology
Redundancy
Multiple routes between nodes. If one route fails, an alternative is automatically used.
Scalability
The network grows with you. Each new node expands range and capacity.
Robustness
No single point of failure. The network works even if multiple nodes fail.
Decentralized
No central infrastructure needed. Every node is equal.
Range extension
Via multi-hop routing you reach nodes far beyond direct radio range.
Self-healing
The network heals itself automatically during failures or changes.
Frequently asked questions
How many nodes do you need minimum for a working network?
Technically you can communicate with just 2 nodes (direct contact). But for a useful mesh network with multi-hop routing, at least 5-10 nodes in an area is ideal.
What is the maximum hop count in MeshCore?
The standard hop limit is 3-7 hops (configurable). This prevents too much latency and network congestion. In practice 3-4 hops work best.
Can I see what topology my region has?
Yes, via the MeshCore app you can see the neighbor list of your own node. Community members sometimes share network maps that visualize the complete topology.
What happens if there are too many nodes in a small area?
With high node density "congestion" can occur: too many messages at once. The CSMA/CA protocol helps prevent this, but very high density can lower throughput.
Is a star topology possible in MeshCore?
MeshCore is designed for mesh topology, but in practice you sometimes see a "hub" pattern where one central repeater in a good spot connects many nodes. This is a natural emergent pattern, not configured.
Strengthen the MeshCore topology
The MeshCore network becomes stronger with every node that is added. Especially repeaters in strategic locations make the difference.