Mesh Network Blog

Reviews, guides, news, and community stories from the world of off-grid mesh networking.

Introducing the RAK WisMesh 1W Booster Starter Kit (RAK10724)
News

Introducing the RAK WisMesh 1W Booster Starter Kit (RAK10724)

RAKwireless releases the WisMesh 1W Booster Starter Kit, a high-power Meshtastic-ready node featuring 1W (30 dBm) output, SX1262 transceiver, SKY66122 PA, and integrated SAW filter for extended range mesh networking.

J
Josh
· 5 min
RAK WisMesh 1W Booster vs RAK4631: Which WisBlock is Right for Your Mesh Network?
Guides

RAK WisMesh 1W Booster vs RAK4631: Which WisBlock is Right for Your Mesh Network?

Technical comparison of the RAK WisMesh 1W Booster Starter Kit (RAK10724) and RAK4631 WisBlock Core for LoRa mesh networking. Compare RF power, range, power consumption, and expandability.

J
Josh
· 7 min
NanoVNA Antenna Testing Guide
Guides

NanoVNA Antenna Testing Guide

Learn how to use a NanoVNA (H or H4 models) to test and tune your 915 MHz LoRa antennas for Meshtastic and MeshCore. Step-by-step guide covering unboxing, calibration, SWR measurement, and interpreting results.

J
Josh
· 10 min
Guides

EasySkyMesh: Power-Efficient MeshCore Firmware

EasySkyMesh delivers custom MeshCore firmware optimized for power efficiency, achieving 8-10mA idle current on repeaters. Learn why this matters for solar-powered nodes, sensor networks, and long-term mesh deployments.

J
Josh
· 7 min
Best Portable Mesh Nodes for 2025
Guides

Best Portable Mesh Nodes for 2025

Looking for the best portable mesh networking device? We break down the top 5 LoRa nodes for Meshtastic and MeshCore in 2025-from ultra-compact card trackers to full-featured handhelds with keyboards.

J
Josh
· 9 min
Guides

MeshCore Device Discovery Explained

Learn how device discovery differs between Meshtastic and MeshCore, why your contact list might be empty, and step-by-step instructions for finding other nodes on your mesh network.

J
Josh
· 18 min
Guides

MeshCore vs Meshtastic Comparison

A beginner-friendly comparison of MeshCore and Meshtastic. Learn the key differences in network design, speed, and use cases to choose the best off-grid mesh platform for your needs.

J
Josh
· 9 min
Guides

What Is a LoRa Mesh Network?

Learn what LoRa mesh networks are, how they work, and why they're perfect for off-grid communication. A complete beginner's guide to mesh networking without cell service or internet.

J
Josh
· 6 min
Yeti Wurks Base Station Review
Reviews

Yeti Wurks Base Station Review

Hands-on review of the Yeti Wurks Meshtastic Base Station, covering solar power, deployment, build quality, and real-world mesh performance in off-grid conditions.

J
Josh
· 7 min
Budget Solar Meshtastic Node - Harbor Breeze Hack
Guides

Budget Solar Meshtastic Node - Harbor Breeze Hack

Transform a $10 Harbor Breeze solar garden light into a weatherproof, self-sustaining LoRa mesh node using RAK WisBlock components.

J
Josh
· 18 min
Guides

Meshtastic Device Roles Explained

A complete guide to all Meshtastic device roles. Learn what each role does, when to use it, and how incorrect role selection can harm mesh performance.

J
Josh
· 7 min
Heltec WiFi LoRa 32 V3 Review
Reviews

Heltec WiFi LoRa 32 V3 Review

An in-depth review of the Heltec WiFi LoRa 32 V3 for Meshtastic and MeshCore mesh networking, based on real-world use across portable nodes, base stations, and fixed relays.

J
Josh
· 5 min
Introducing Nodak Mesh
Community

Introducing Nodak Mesh

Nodak Mesh is a growing community of hobbyists, tinkerers, and curious newcomers building resilient mesh networks across North Dakota and beyond.

J
Josh
· 3 min