Mesh Network

AREDN - Amateur Radio Emergency Data Network - is free software running on modern consumer wifi routers.

The purpose is to create network nodes that automatically connect to each other to forward network traffic.

For example, a disaster area does not have cellphone, internet or regular phone operational. A string of AREDN nodes can be put up to carry internet or at least network capacities deep into the disaster area with minimal infrastructure (a battery, solar panel, Wifi router). This will allow personnel to send photos, documents, prescriptions, etc., from deep in the disaster area to the agencies that require it.

Our club has been experimenting with this technology hoping to cover the Fort Worth and surrounding areas with nodes in case of a local disaster. Our club tower AREDN nodes have 360 coverage over the City of Fort Worth.