Mesh network versus internet
Two fundamentally different approaches. MeshCore mesh network runs decentralised, without providers or infrastructure. Your fallback when connectivity dies.
Same goal, opposite methods
Internet and mesh networks both connect devices for communication – but through entirely different architectures. Internet relies on centralised hierarchy: providers, servers, backbone connections. Mesh networks are peer-to-peer: every device talks directly to its neighbours.
This distinction becomes crucial during emergencies. When Storm Arwen struck in 2021, internet and mobile services collapsed across Northern England and Scotland. A mesh network would have continued because it needs neither mains power nor centralised equipment.
How each system operates
🌐 Internet (hierarchical model)
Internet follows a pyramid structure with central control points:
→ Your device → Home router → ISP → National backbone → Destination server
→ Depends on mains electricity, fibre cables, mobile masts, data centres
→ One failed link breaks the entire chain
→ Providers control access, speeds, and can filter traffic
📡 Mesh network (peer model)
MeshCore operates without central hierarchy – every device is equal:
→ Your device → Neighbour's device → Next device → Destination
→ Messages hop through the network until they arrive
→ One device fails → network routes around it automatically
→ No central control, community-owned infrastructure
Six fundamental differences
1. Infrastructure requirements
Internet needs telephone exchanges, mobile masts, undersea cables, data centres. MeshCore needs only pocket-sized LoRa radios talking to each other. No Openreach vans, no infrastructure maintenance.
2. Geographic reach
Internet connects globally through providers and international links. MeshCore covers Britain through its expanding mesh – messages relay automatically from device to device across the country.
3. Payment model
Broadband costs £25-60 monthly plus line rental. MeshCore costs £50-100 once, then operates free permanently. No Direct Debits, no price rises, no minimum contracts.
4. Failure behaviour
Internet fails during power cuts, exchange faults, or demand spikes. The August 2019 London power cut disabled half a million connections. MeshCore continues on batteries for days, with automatic rerouting around any failed nodes.
5. Privacy model
Internet traffic passes through ISPs who can inspect, log, and analyse patterns. MeshCore offers end-to-end encryption for private messages – even relay devices cannot read the content.
6. Feature set
Internet supports video streaming, voice calls, large file transfers, online gaming. MeshCore handles text messages and GPS coordinates only. Limited features, but precisely what emergencies require.
Direct comparison
| Characteristic | Internet | MeshCore Mesh |
|---|---|---|
| Infrastructure | Centralised (exchanges, masts, servers) | Distributed (peer-to-peer radio) |
| Control | Providers and Ofcom regulated | Community-owned, open standard |
| Failure mode | Cascading outages common | Self-healing, automatic rerouting |
| Throughput | High (100+ Mbps typical) | Low (~1 kbps, text only) |
| Coverage | Global via providers | UK-wide via mesh relays |
| Running cost | £25-60/month | Free (after £50+ device) |
| Crisis performance | Often affected by outages | ✓ Designed for off-grid use |
Strengths and weaknesses
Internet
Strengths
- ✓Massive bandwidth: 4K streaming, video calls, cloud services
- ✓Worldwide connectivity through established infrastructure
- ✓Supports every online application and service
Weaknesses
- ✗Fails during blackouts, storms, and equipment faults
- ✗Entirely dependent on centralised infrastructure
- ✗Ongoing monthly expense (£300-700+ annually)
MeshCore mesh network
Strengths
- ✓Functions without internet, electricity, or mobile Signal
- ✓Can work during infrastructure outages
- ✓Free permanently after initial device purchase
- ✓Decentralised: no company controls it
Weaknesses
- ✗Text and GPS only – no images, video, or voice
- ✗Coverage limited to UK (not international)
Technology comparison questions
Can MeshCore genuinely work without any internet?
That is its entire purpose. MeshCore operates completely independently of the internet. Designed specifically for situations where conventional connectivity has failed.
Should I cancel my broadband and use mesh instead?
No – they serve different purposes. Use broadband for daily life (streaming, work, browsing). Use MeshCore as an independent option when broadband is unavailable.
Why would I want both?
Internet is convenient but vulnerable. During Storm Arwen, many areas lost connectivity for days. MeshCore ensures you can still reach family and coordinate with neighbours when infrastructure fails.
How do costs compare over five years?
Broadband: £25-60/month equals £1500-3600 over five years. MeshCore: £50-100 once, then free forever. No contracts, no price increases.
Can I send photos through MeshCore?
No – text and GPS coordinates only. Data rate is deliberately low to maximise range and battery life. For emergency communication, text suffices to coordinate with family and request help.
How widespread is MeshCore in Britain?
Growing rapidly. Active repeaters exist in major cities and many rural areas. Check the network map for current coverage.
The pragmatic approach: both
Use internet for daily communication. Use MeshCore as an independent option when infrastructure is unavailable. LocalMesh is a community project. Coverage depends on volunteer participation and varies by location. Not a replacement for emergency services – always dial 999 in emergencies.
Explore MeshCore and discover independent communication.