Communication when networks fail
When internet goes down and mobile networks fail, MeshCore provides emergency communication – no infrastructure required.
Your backup when infrastructure fails
Mobile networks depend on masts. Internet depends on cables and power. During blackouts, storms, or infrastructure failures, these systems can go down simultaneously – leaving you unable to contact family or neighbours.
MeshCore provides emergency communication that works independently. Messages travel directly between devices using radio waves, hopping through a volunteer-built mesh network. No masts, no internet, no mains power required.
When do you need emergency communication?
Situations where normal communication fails:
⚡ Power outages
Mobile masts have limited battery backup – typically 4-8 hours. Extended blackouts mean no mobile coverage. MeshCore devices run for days on a single charge.
🌊 Severe weather
Storms and flooding can damage infrastructure and overwhelm networks. MeshCore continues working because it doesn't depend on that infrastructure.
📡 Network failures
Carrier outages, technical failures, or congested networks can disable normal communication. MeshCore operates on its own independent network.
🏔️ Remote areas
Many areas have poor or no mobile coverage. MeshCore works wherever the mesh network reaches – extended by volunteer repeaters.
🎪 Crowded events
Large gatherings overwhelm mobile networks. MeshCore capacity actually increases with more users.
🎯 The common factor
All these scenarios have one thing in common: normal communication infrastructure fails when you need it most. Emergency backup communication means being prepared.
MeshCore: emergency communication that works
MeshCore transmits over LoRa radio Signals on the licence-free 868 MHz band. Devices communicate directly with each other and relay through the mesh network. No masts, no internet, no central infrastructure.
LocalMesh is the volunteer network building emergency communication infrastructure across the UK. Coverage varies by location and depends on participation.
How emergency communication works
MeshCore operates differently from normal networks:
1. Direct radio communication
Your device broadcasts on the 868 MHz band directly to other MeshCore devices nearby. No masts, no internet connection required.
2. Mesh relay
When your recipient is beyond direct range, intermediate devices automatically relay your message. Each hop extends the reach.
3. Automatic routing
The mesh discovers the best paths. If one route is unavailable, messages find alternative paths through other nodes.
4. Encrypted messaging
Private messages are encrypted end-to-end. Your emergency communications remain confidential.
Why MeshCore for emergencies
No infrastructure needed
No internet provider, no mobile operator, no masts. If your device has battery, it communicates.
Days of battery life
LoRa radios use minimal power. 3-7 days of active use from a single charge – essential during extended emergencies.
No ongoing costs
Buy the device from around £50. Use the network forever. No subscriptions during normal times or emergencies.
Simple to use
Pair via Bluetooth to your smartphone. Send messages as easily as texting.
800+ UK repeaters
Volunteers across the UK have installed repeaters providing emergency communication coverage.
Private messaging
End-to-end encryption for sensitive emergency communications.
Emergency communication scenarios
What you can do when normal networks fail:
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Contact family: Reach loved ones when mobile networks are down
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Coordinate with neighbours: Organise mutual support during emergencies
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Share your location: GPS coordinates help others find you
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Request help: Send emergency requests across the network
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Receive updates: Get information from others in the network
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Confirm safety: Let people know you're okay
Emergency communication options
| Optie | Voordelen | Nadelen |
|---|---|---|
| DAB/FM Radio |
+ Receives broadcasts
+ Inexpensive (£15-40)
|
- One-way only
- Cannot send messages
|
| Satellite Messenger |
+ Worldwide coverage
+ Two-way messaging
|
- Expensive devices (£300-600)
- Monthly fees (£15-50)
|
| PMR446 / CB Radio |
+ Voice communication
+ Affordable (£30-100)
|
- Limited range (~3km urban)
- No encryption
|
| MeshCore |
+ Two-way text messaging
+ No subscriptions
+ End-to-end encryption
+ Range extends via mesh
|
Coverage varies by location
|
Set up emergency communication now
Get prepared before you need it:
Step 1: Get a LoRa radio device (from £50)
Step 2: Download the free MeshCore app
Step 3: Pair via Bluetooth – like wireless headphones
Step 4: Test it, then keep it charged and ready
Follow our setup guide with device recommendations.
Common questions
Does MeshCore really work without internet?
Yes. Radio Signals travel directly between devices on the 868 MHz band. No router, no mobile Signal, no internet connection required.
How far can messages travel?
Messages hop through the mesh network, extending range via repeaters. Coverage depends on where volunteers have installed repeaters.
Is there coverage in my area?
Coverage varies by location. Check the coverage map. Adding a device helps extend the network.
Is setup difficult?
Most people complete setup in under an hour. The Discord community offers help for any questions.
Do messages queue if I'm temporarily out of range?
Yes. The mesh stores messages and delivers them when you're reachable again.
What are the ongoing costs?
None. One-time device purchase, free forever. No subscriptions.
Get prepared for emergencies
Emergency communication works best when you set it up before you need it. LocalMesh is a volunteer project – coverage depends on participation and varies by location. Not a replacement for emergency services – always dial 999 in emergencies.
Set up your emergency backup communication today.