Connect Locally:
Somerset and Meshtastic®

What is Meshtastic®?

 

Meshtastic is a way for people to communicate even when cell phone services and the internet don’t work.

 

It uses small, low-power radios instead of cell towers. These radios talk directly to each other and pass messages along, so information can travel many miles without needing Wi-Fi, cell service, or any company-owned infrastructure.

 

 

How does it work?

 

Think of Meshtastic® like a bucket brigade for messages.

 

Each small device (called a node) can send and receive messages.

If a message can’t reach someone directly, nearby devices automatically pass it along.

The more devices there are, the farther messages can travel.

 

There’s no central server and nothing to “go down” — the network exists as long as people have devices powered on.

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Why is it useful?

 

Works off-grid:

No internet or cell service required. It keeps working during power outages, emergencies, or in remote areas.

 

Long distance, low power:

Messages can travel several miles at a time while using very little battery. Many devices can run for days or weeks, or even on solar power.

 

Private and secure:

Messages are encrypted, so only people on the network can read them.

 

Simple messaging & location sharing:

Users can send text messages and share GPS locations, similar to texting, just without a phone network.

 

Affordable:

The node hardware is inexpensive and widely available.

To use it, you can use an old smart phone that can run the Meshtastic® app (Android or Apple) and has blue tooth. No cell service needed.

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Common uses

 

• Emergency and disaster communications

• Rural communities and areas with poor cell coverage

• Outdoor activities like hiking, hunting, and off-roading

• Community networks that want local, independent communication