MeshCore setup for beginners
Step-by-step guide to setup your MeshCore device in the Netherlands. Settings for EU/UK (Narrow) preset.
Looking for repeater settings?
Want to flash and configure a repeater? Check out our dedicated guide.
Quick summary
The key settings at a glance:
MeshCore setup: easier than you think
Setting up MeshCore might sound complicated, but it's actually quite easy. With this complete beginner guide, you'll have a working MeshCore device connected to the MeshCore app within 15 minutes. No technical knowledge needed, no complicated software, just follow step by step.
MeshCore works via LoRa radio technology and doesn't need internet. Perfect for emergency communication during power outages, disasters, or other crisis situations. The device is compact, lasts days on one battery, and connects you with others nearby without internet or mobile network.
Important: This guide shows the settings for the MeshCore network in the Netherlands. If you're located outside the Netherlands, different presets may apply for your region.
What do you need?
Before you start setting up, make sure you have these items ready:
📻 A LoRa radio device
The most important: a MeshCore-compatible LoRa radio device. This is a small transmitter about the size of a matchbox.
From €50 on Aliexpress. See our devices page for recommendations.
📱 A smartphone
Android or iOS smartphone with Bluetooth. You don't need internet after installation, only Bluetooth.
Android works best, but iOS also works (with some limitations).
🔋 USB cable and charger
To charge your device. Usually a USB-C cable is included, but check this when purchasing.
A powerbank is handy for on the go or during power outages.
⏱️ 15 minutes of time
The installation is quick. 10-15 minutes is enough to set everything up and send your first message.
The first time might take a bit longer, but then you know the way.
How many devices do you need?
The number of devices you need depends on what you want to do:
1 device
One device with BLE Companion firmware is enough to send messages via your smartphone. Connect the device via Bluetooth to the MeshCore app and start communicating with others nearby.
2 devices
With two devices you can communicate directly with each other (peer-to-peer), or use one as a companion and one as a repeater to extend your range.
3+ devices
Additional devices can function as repeaters or room servers. The more repeaters, the larger and more reliable your network becomes.
💡 Tip: Start with one device to learn the system. Expand later with a repeater if you want to reach further.
What does MeshCore cost?
The good news: MeshCore is mostly free to use.
✅ Firmware: Free
All MeshCore firmware (Companion, Repeater, Room Server) is free and open source. You can freely download and flash it to your device.
✅ Smartphone app: Free
The MeshCore app for Android and iOS is free to download and use. There is an optional freemium model with extra features.
💰 Hardware: From €50
The only thing you spend money on is the hardware. An entry-level LoRa radio starts around €50 (Heltec V3/V4), a T-Deck Plus with screen and keyboard costs €80-110.
There are no subscription fees, no monthly costs, and no hidden fees. Once purchased, the network works without further expenses.
Step-by-step: MeshCore setup
Follow these 6 steps to setup your MeshCore device with the MeshCore app. We'll guide you:
Charge your device
Start by charging your LoRa radio. Connect it via USB cable to a charger or computer. Most devices have an LED light indicating it's charging.
- • Red light = charging
- • Green or blue light = fully charged
- • First charge takes 2-3 hours
Download the MeshCore app
Go to the app store on your smartphone and download the free MeshCore app. For Android that's the Google Play Store, for iOS the App Store.
- • Search for "MeshCore" in the app store
- • Download and install the app (free)
- • Open the app and grant Bluetooth permission
Turn on your device
Once your device is charged, turn it on with the power button. Most devices have a small screen that lights up. You might see a welcome screen or basic menu.
- • Hold the power button for 2-3 seconds
- • Wait for the screen to turn on
- • The device automatically starts Bluetooth mode
Connect via Bluetooth
Open the MeshCore app on your smartphone. The app automatically searches for available devices nearby. Select your device from the list.
- • Click on "Add Device" or the plus icon
- • Select your device (usually "MeshCore_XXXX")
- • Wait until pairing is complete (10-20 seconds)
Choose the right preset
This is the most important step! You must choose the correct preset so you end up on the MeshCore network. Choose the wrong preset and you won't see anyone.
- • Go to "Choose Preset" in the app
- • Choose: EU/UK (Narrow) - this is mandatory!
- • Choose a nickname for yourself
Join the network
Done! Now you can explore the network. You'll automatically join the "Public" channel where you can see other users.
- • Open the Public channel in the app
- • Follow the chat and start a conversation with other users
- • Introduce yourself and feel free to ask for help if you need it
Tips for beginners
Always fully charge
Always start with a fully charged device. The first time the battery might drain a bit faster.
Test outside
LoRa radio works best outdoors. Walls and metal significantly weaken the signal.
Check the map
View the LocalMesh map to see where other users and repeaters are in your area in the Netherlands.
Join the community
Join the Telegram group for help from other users in the Netherlands, tips, and to ask questions.
Use default settings
As a beginner, it's best to use the default settings. They work perfectly fine in 99% of cases.
Update regularly
Check occasionally if there's a firmware update available. Updates bring improvements and new features.
Common beginner mistakes
Avoid these common pitfalls:
❌ Choosing the wrong preset
You MUST choose the "EU/UK (Narrow)" preset in the app. Otherwise you'll end up on a different network and won't see other MeshCore users. This is the #1 mistake beginners make!
❌ Testing only indoors
LoRa signals have difficulty penetrating walls. Always test outside first to see if your device works. Then you can experiment indoors.
❌ Not choosing a unique name
Use a recognizable name so others know who you are. "Node_1234" says little. Choose for example your first name + city.
❌ Wrong expectations of range
Range strongly depends on height and antenna. At ground level in the city, range is limited to a few hundred meters. Go outside and find a high point for better range. With a repeater on a rooftop you can reach 5-10 km.
Frequently asked questions
How long does setup take?
For a beginner 10-15 minutes. Once you've done it, it can be done in 5 minutes. Charging takes 2-3 hours, but you can do that simultaneously with other steps.
Do I need internet to set it up?
Only to download the app and possibly install firmware updates. After that everything works without internet via Bluetooth.
What if I don't see other users?
Then you're possibly too far from others. Check the map on our website, go outside (preferably high up), or place a repeater to extend the range.
Can I break something with wrong settings?
No, you can't break anything. In the worst case you reset the device to factory settings and start over. See the knowledge base for reset instructions.
Do I need to keep my device on always?
No, only if you want to receive messages or if you're running a repeater. For normal use you can turn it on/off whenever you want.
How much data does it use?
No data at all! MeshCore works without internet, so it doesn't use any mobile data from your phone. Only Bluetooth uses minimal battery.
Ready to start?
You now have all the knowledge to setup MeshCore. It's easier than you thought, right? Within fifteen minutes you're part of the growing MeshCore network.
Don't have a device yet? View our recommendations and start today.