Using MeshCore
Explore the features of MeshCore — from chat rooms and direct messages to repeaters and mesh networking.
Core Features
Direct Messages
Send private, encrypted messages directly to any node on the mesh. Messages are end-to-end encrypted — only the sender and recipient can read them.
Tap on any node in the companion app to start a direct conversation.
Chat Rooms
Join group conversations hosted on Room Servers. Rooms allow multiple users to communicate in a shared channel, similar to a group chat.
Room Servers store and forward messages so you can catch up on conversations you missed while offline.
Repeaters
Repeaters extend the range of the mesh by relaying messages between nodes. They operate autonomously and require no user interaction once deployed.
Register your repeater at our repeater registry to help the community track coverage.
Location Sharing
Devices with GPS can share their location on the mesh. View all nodes on the mwmesh map.
Location sharing can be toggled on or off in device settings for privacy.
Node Types
Companion Radio
The standard firmware for personal use. Connects to the MeshCore app via Bluetooth for messaging, location sharing, and mesh communication. This is what most users will run.
Repeater
A dedicated relay node that forwards messages across the mesh. Repeaters don't need a phone connection — they run independently. Place them at high elevations for maximum coverage.
Room Server
Hosts chat rooms on the mesh. A Room Server stores messages and serves them to clients that connect. Think of it as a bulletin board that any node in range can read and post to.
Tips & Best Practices
Message Delivery
Messages on the mesh are delivered on a best-effort basis. If the recipient is out of range or offline, the message may not be delivered immediately. Repeaters and Room Servers help improve reliability.
Channel Etiquette
The mesh is a shared resource. Keep messages concise, avoid spamming, and be mindful of bandwidth. Long messages take more airtime and can slow down the network for everyone.
Firmware Updates
Check for firmware updates regularly at flasher.meshcore.io. Updates bring new features, bug fixes, and performance improvements.