Send and receive offline messages
With MeshCore mesh network you can send and receive messages without internet, WiFi or mobile network. Messages are automatically forwarded via other devices.
How to send messages when internet and telephony fail?
We're used to always being connected. WhatsApp, SMS, email – everything works via internet or mobile networks. But what if those networks fail? During major power outages, cyberattacks or natural disasters in the Netherlands, traditional communication is often unavailable.
This is where sending offline messages becomes crucial. MeshCore uses a mesh network that works via LoRa radio signals. You can send messages to other users in the network, even when internet, WiFi and mobile networks are completely down.
The best part? Messages are automatically forwarded via intermediate devices (repeaters). You don't need to be within direct range of the recipient – the network automatically finds the best route for your message.
How does sending offline messages via mesh network work?
MeshCore uses store-and-forward technology. Here's how it works:
1. Send message
You type a message on your smartphone (via the MeshCore app) or on your standalone mesh device. You choose the recipient or send it to a channel (group chat).
2. Radio signal transmitted
Your LoRa radio device transmits the message via radio signals (433MHz or 868MHz in Europe). This reaches all devices within ~1km range in urban areas, or up to 10+ km in open field.
3. Mesh network forwards
If the recipient is not within direct range, an intermediate device (repeater) automatically forwards the message. This process repeats until the message reaches its destination.
4. Store-and-forward
If an intermediate device is offline, the previous device temporarily stores the message. Once connection is restored, the message is still forwarded.
5. Recipient receives message
The recipient gets the message on their device, even if they were offline when it was sent. As soon as they come within range of the network, they receive all messages.
Key features of offline messages
No internet or telephony needed
MeshCore works completely independently. No WiFi, no mobile network, no provider, no central servers. Messages go directly between devices via radio signals.
Automatic routing
The mesh network automatically finds the best route for your message. If one route is unavailable, the network tries an alternative route via other repeaters.
Store-and-forward for reliability
Messages are temporarily stored if an intermediate link is offline. Once connection is restored, the message is automatically forwarded. No messages are lost.
Encrypted private messages
Private messages between two users are end-to-end encrypted. Nobody can read along, not even the repeaters forwarding the message. Group channels are unencrypted (everyone in the channel can read).
Benefits of sending offline messages
Always works
No dependency on internet, providers or infrastructure in the Netherlands. The mesh network works even during complete blackout.
Automatic forwarding
You don't need to be within direct range. The network automatically forwards messages via repeaters.
Store-and-forward
Messages are stored when intermediate devices are offline. Once connection is restored, everything is forwarded.
Privacy and encryption
Private messages are end-to-end encrypted. Nobody can intercept or read your messages.
Low energy consumption
LoRa radio technology uses little power. Devices last days to weeks on one battery.
Growing network
The mesh network in the Netherlands is growing fast. More users and repeaters means more reliable and greater coverage.
Practical applications of offline messages
Sending offline messages is essential in these situations in the Netherlands:
-
✓
Emergency communication during disasters: During floods, storms or earthquakes, internet and telephony fail. Mesh network keeps working.
-
✓
Power outage / blackout: Mobile cell towers fail after a few hours. MeshCore runs on battery and stays available.
-
✓
Remote areas: No mobile coverage in mountains, forests or at sea? Mesh network works wherever other users are nearby.
-
✓
Festivals and events: Mobile networks overloaded by large crowds. Mesh network keeps working.
-
✓
Family and neighborhood networks: Ensure family and neighbors can reach each other, regardless of commercial network status.
-
✓
Businesses and organizations: Business continuity during network outages. Internal communication remains possible via mesh network.
Frequently asked questions about offline messages
Do offline messages really work without internet?
Yes, completely. MeshCore uses LoRa radio signals that go directly between devices in the Netherlands. No internet, WiFi, mobile network or provider needed. Works even during complete blackout.
How far can offline messages travel?
Direct range is ~1km in urban areas, up to 10+ km in open field. Via repeaters, messages can travel much further – potentially through all of the Netherlands if there are enough repeaters.
What happens if the recipient is offline?
The message stays stored in the network (store-and-forward). As soon as the recipient comes within range again, they receive all missed messages automatically.
Are offline messages encrypted?
Private messages (1-on-1) are end-to-end encrypted. Nobody can read them. Messages in group channels are unencrypted – everyone in the channel can read.
Can I send photos or files?
Currently MeshCore only supports text messages and location data. Photos and files are not yet possible due to LoRa bandwidth limitations.
How many messages can I send?
There is no limit to the number of messages. However, there is a send ratio (fair use) to not overload the network. Normal conversations are no problem.
Stay connected, even without internet
Sending offline messages via MeshCore mesh network gives you reliable communication in the Netherlands, regardless of internet and mobile network status. Perfect for emergencies, remote areas and anyone who wants a backup communication method.
Start with MeshCore today and ensure you always stay reachable for family, friends and neighbors in the Netherlands.