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In recent years, we have been hearing more and more about decentralized mesh networks, especially in contexts related to communications resilience, the outdoors, and technological experimentation.
In the world of modern telecommunications, we are used to depending on centralized infrastructures: cell towers, satellites, and Wi-Fi routers. But what happens when these are missing? Enter mesh networks. Today we explore the two protagonists of this revolution: Meshtastic and MeshCore.
What is a mesh network
A mesh network is a network in which each node (i.e., each device) can communicate directly with the others and act as a "bridge" for messages. There is no central point like a server or tower: if one node fails, the network continues to function thanks to the others.
This type of architecture is ideal when:
- there is no Internet or cellular coverage,
- failure-resistant communication is needed,
- you want to avoid dependence on centralized infrastructures.
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Meshtastic: Messaging Without the Internet
Meshtastic is an open-source project that allows you to send text messages, GPS location, and small data using low-power radios, specifically LoRa modules.
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How it works
- It uses open-source radio frequencies (ISM), so no subscription required.
- Each Meshtastic device is a node in the mesh network.
- Messages bounce from one node to another until they reach the recipient.
- It can be controlled from a smartphone via Bluetooth (Android and iOS).
What you need
- A compatible device (ESP32 + LoRa, such as Heltec, T-Beam, RAK, etc.)
- The Meshtastic app
- (Optional) GPS for location
What is it for?
Meshtastic is widely used for:
- hiking and outdoor activities
- emergencies and civil protection
- events and festivals
- radio and networking testing
- communications without cellular networks
Messages are encrypted, so they can only be read by authorized nodes.
MeshCore: the “operating system” for mesh networks
MeshCore is a more recent and ambitious project. It is not just a messaging app, but a modular platform for building decentralized mesh networks and distributed applications.
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How is it different from Meshtastic?
While Meshtastic focuses on simple messaging, MeshCore aims to:
- be more flexible and programmable,
- support different radio and transport types,
- enable the development of mesh-native applications.
In practice, MeshCore aims to be a sort of "base layer" on which to build services: chat, sensors, data exchange, automation, distributed identities.
Key Features
- Modular architecture
- Experimental and developer-oriented approach
- Strong focus on decentralization and resilience
- Designed to grow beyond LoRa alone
MeshCore is even less widespread than Meshtastic, but very interesting for those who want to experiment and build, not just use.
Why they matter today
In a world increasingly dependent on centralized infrastructure, projects like Meshtastic and MeshCore show that:
- communicating without the Internet is possible,
- networks can be communal and autonomous,
- technology It can be more resilient, open, and controlled by users.
They are not just "emergency" tools, but real laboratories for imagining the future of decentralized communications.
Beyond Blocks and Central Control
The true power of Meshtastic and MeshCore architectures lies in their ability to operate totally autonomously. While traditional messaging apps (WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal) depend on central servers and internet providers, a mesh network is "Internet-independent."
1. Overcoming the Government "Kill Switch"
In many scenarios of political instability, governments can impose total internet shutdowns or restrict social media through internet providers (ISP).
- Zero Internet: Since the nodes communicate directly via radio (LoRa or sub-GHz frequencies), there is no "cable" to cut.
- Invisibility to IP Blocks: Since there are no centralized IP addresses or DNS servers to obscure, traditional digital censorship techniques are ineffective.
- Resilience: If a node is hijacked or shut down, the network instantly recalculates the route between the remaining nodes.
2. Goodbye to BigTech and Tracking
Today, every message we send passes through the infrastructure of tech giants that, even with encryption, can collect metadata (who speaks to whom, when, and from where).
- Radical Decentralization: In a mesh network, there is no company who owns the servers. You own the hardware and software.
- Metadata Anonymity: There is no account associated with a phone number or email address. Communication occurs between encrypted hardware IDs, making commercial or government profiling nearly impossible.
- Off-Grid Privacy: Encryption (usually AES-256) occurs locally on the device before it's even transmitted through the air.
3. Democratization of Frequencies
These technologies use so-called "ISM" (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) frequency bands, which are free and open in most of the world.
- You don't have to pay a subscription to a provider.
- You don't have to ask permission to expand your network: just add a knot on the roof of your house or a friend's house.
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Meshtastic or MeshCore: which one to choose?
It depends on the goal:
- Do you want to communicate immediately, without the Internet, with inexpensive devices?
→ Meshtastic is the ideal choice. - Do you want to experiment, develop, and build new applications on mesh networks?
→ MeshCore is moresuitable.
In many cases, Meshtastic is the perfect entry point to understand the world of mesh networking, while MeshCore represents a more technical and open next step.
Note: The term "MeshCore" is also often used in software development contexts (as a mesh system core engine), so it's always a good idea to check the specific documentation from the hardware manufacturer you're using!
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Meshtastic | MeshCore |
|---|---|---|
| Target | Enthusiasts, hikers, preppers | Companies, Smart Cities, Industrial IoT |
| Main protocol | LoRa (Low speed, long range) | Multi-protocol / IP-based |
| Hardware | Cheap Open Hardware | Certified/professional hardware |
| Cost | Very low | Infrastructure investment |
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