MeshCore server administration
Take command of your network infrastructure with proper server management
What is server administration?
During the widespread flooding across Yorkshire in 2023, community mesh networks proved invaluable for coordinating volunteer efforts when mobile networks became overwhelmed. The repeaters and room servers that kept communications flowing required careful preparation beforehand.
This comprehensive guide walks you through setting up autonomous network infrastructure. Whether you prefer the web-based configurator, the MeshCore mobile application, or terminal commands, you will gain the knowledge to deploy resilient communication nodes.
Server types
Repeater
Think of repeaters as tireless relay runners, passing messages onwards through the network without complaint. They announce themselves periodically, allowing other nodes to discover optimal routing paths.
Room server
Room servers function like village notice boards in the digital realm. Community members can leave messages, read announcements, and participate in group discussions that persist even when individuals go offline.
Practical advice: Dedicate separate hardware for each server role whenever feasible. This prevents resource contention and simplifies troubleshooting when issues arise.
Configuration methods
Several pathways exist for configuring your MeshCore server infrastructure:
Web interface (config.MeshCore.dev)
Plug your device into a USB port and navigate to config.MeshCore.dev using Chrome or Edge. This browser-based tool presents all options through an intuitive graphical layout.
Web flasher console
Immediately after flashing firmware through the web-based flasher, a command console becomes available. This proves particularly useful for rapid initial setup without installing additional software.
Smartphone App
The MeshCore companion applications for Android and iOS enable wireless administration of your infrastructure. Establish connections via Bluetooth when physically nearby, or traverse the mesh network itself for remote management.
T-Deck remote admin
Authorised T-Deck devices possess the capability to adjust server configurations across the mesh network, providing a portable administration solution.
Managing passwords
Admin password
The administrative password serves as the gatekeeper for your server configuration. Without this credential, modifications remain impossible regardless of physical or network access.
Factory-set password: password
Modification command: password {new-password}
⚠️ Replace the factory password immediately upon deployment! The default credential is publicly documented, meaning anyone could potentially reconfigure your server.
Guest password (room server)
Room servers maintain a distinct guest credential that permits users to join the communication space.
Factory-set guest password: hello
Modification command: set guest.password {guest-password}
Setting location
Establishing your repeater coordinates enables it to appear on the LocalMesh network map. This visibility helps other operators understand coverage patterns across the United Kingdom.
Define latitude:
set lat {GPS Latitude}
Define longitude:
set long {GPS Longitude}
Coordinates for central Manchester:
set lat 53.4808set long -2.2426
Obtaining GPS coordinates is straightforward using mapping services. On Google Maps, simply right-click your desired position and select the coordinate values.
Private key management
Every MeshCore node possesses a cryptographic identity consisting of a private key. This key underpins all encrypted communications and can be retrieved or restored through console commands.
Retrieve current key:
get prv.key
Restore from backup:
set prv.key {hex-value}
⚠️ Following any private key modification, restart the device to apply changes. Guard this key carefully as it forms the foundation of your node's secure identity!
Common commands
Display device information
info
Configure frequency
set freq 868.0
Apply regional preset
set preset eu
Assign device name
set name {name}
Restart device
reboot
Restore factory defaults
factory-reset
Best practices
- ✓ Modify the default administrative password before any server goes into production service
- ✓ Configure accurate GPS coordinates to ensure proper representation on coverage maps
- ✓ Select the 868 MHz preset to comply with Ofcom regulations for licence-exempt radio in Britain
- ✓ Operate repeaters and room servers on dedicated hardware for optimal performance
- ✓ Check for firmware updates periodically to benefit from security patches and new capabilities
- ✓ Create a secure backup of your private key and store it separately from the device
Frequently asked questions
Is it possible to adjust settings without physical access?
Absolutely. Through the MeshCore application or an authorised T-Deck, administrators can modify repeater and room server configurations remotely. The administrative password remains mandatory for any changes.
What are the consequences of performing a factory reset?
All customised settings vanish during this process, including passwords, location data, and the cryptographic private key. Upon restart, the device generates fresh identity credentials.
At what intervals do repeaters broadcast their presence?
Repeaters transmit advertisement packets every 12 hours containing their name, geographic position, and public encryption key. This interval cannot be modified.
Ready to configure your server?
Begin with the web-based interface for the most accessible configuration experience