FAQ & Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

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Do I need a ham radio license?

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No. Meshtastic operates on the 915 MHz ISM band in the US, which does not require a license. Anyone can use it.

How far can Meshtastic communicate?

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Range depends heavily on terrain and antenna height. In the Finger Lakes region, node-to-node range of 5–15 miles is typical with line-of-sight. Hilltop nodes overlooking a lake valley can reach much farther. Messages also hop through intermediate nodes, extending effective range across the entire mesh.

Is it private?

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Meshtastic supports encrypted direct messages between devices. The default channel is unencrypted and visible to all nodes — think of it like a public bulletin board. Private channels with encryption keys can be configured for group or one-to-one communication.

What does it cost?

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A basic Meshtastic node costs $25–$60. There are no recurring fees — no subscriptions, no service plans. The network runs on volunteer-operated infrastructure with no central authority.

Can I use it without a phone?

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Yes. Many devices have a built-in screen for sending and receiving messages. However, the phone app provides a much better user experience and is recommended for most users.

How can I help expand the network?

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The most impactful thing you can do is set up a fixed node at elevation — on a rooftop, in an attic window, or on a mast. Solar-powered nodes in remote high-terrain locations are especially valuable. See the Get Started guide for hardware recommendations.

What about bad weather and power outages?

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LoRa radios use very little power. A node with a small solar panel and battery can run indefinitely. The mesh is decentralized — if individual nodes go offline, messages route around them. This makes the network inherently resilient during storms and power outages.

Resources

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• Meshtastic Official Documentation
• Meshtastic Firmware Downloads
• Meshtastic Discord Community
• LoRa/Meshtastic Subreddit

Recommended Hardware

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