📡 Repeater maintainers: the Bay Area MeshCore network is moving to 2-byte prefixes. Read more about how to update your repeaters.

Bay Area MeshCore

We’re building a community-run, off-grid wireless messaging network across the Bay Area using low-power radios and the open-source MeshCore platform.

A rooftop view in San Francisco, representing long-range line-of-sight radio links.

What is MeshCore?

MeshCore is an encrypted packet-based mesh network built from low-cost, low-power radios. Bay Area MeshCore is a local group of hobbyists building real-world coverage across rooftops, hilltops, and treetops.

Most devices are compact, pocketable, and controlled from a mobile app. Setup is approachable, costs are low, and there are no hidden AI, ad-tech, or crypto gimmicks.

Getting Started

  1. Read the official MeshCore introduction.
  2. Check the project FAQ.
  3. Join our Bay Area MeshCore Discord and ask for hardware/setup recommendations before you buy.
Contact the local group

Recommended Devices

Ready-to-buy companion and repeater devices to get your up on the mesh as quickly as possible. Our guide covers what to get, where to buy, and what to watch out for.

View recommended devices

Setup Guides

  • Companion Setup
    Your personal radio, which pairs with the MeshCore app on your phone so you can send and receive messages on the mesh.
  • Repeater Setup
    Infrastructure devices which relay messages across the mesh network and extend its reach.

No license required

Get started without a ham license or recurring fees.

~$25 entry cost

Typical starter radios are affordable and easy to source.

Tens of km range

Great line-of-sight links from rooftops, hills, and treetops.