About WNY MeshCore
A community-owned radio network built across Western NY — one node at a time.
What is MeshCore?
MeshCore is an open-source mesh networking firmware with dedicated infrastructure roles. Unlike simple flood-routing protocols, MeshCore uses Repeaters and Room Servers to intelligently route messages through the network.
Using LoRa (Long Range) radio technology, MeshCore nodes can communicate over several miles, even in challenging WNY weather and terrain across the region's vastness. Strategically placed Repeaters extend coverage while Companion devices connect users via Bluetooth to their phones.
Whether you're hiking, prepping for emergencies, or just interested in off-grid tech, MeshCore runs on affordable hardware and belongs to no company — it's fully community-owned.
How Mesh Networking Works
Direct Communication
Nodes communicate directly with each other using radio waves, no internet or cell towers required.
Dedicated Repeaters
Repeaters are solar-powered nodes placed at high points that relay messages across the network efficiently.
Resilient by Design
No single point of failure. The network automatically routes around problems and adapts to changes.
The WNY Community
WNY MeshCore is a group of ham radio hobbyists, tech people, and emergency preparedness folks working together to build a free, community-owned radio network across Western NY.
Our coverage area extends across the WNY metro area, the Finger Lakes regional corridor from Buffalo to Rochester, and across the vastness of rural Western NY. With nodes placed at strategic high points, we're creating a network that can reach hikers across the region, connect communities through variable weather, and provide backup communication when traditional infrastructure fails.
Our Mission
Build and maintain a free, community-owned mesh radio network that anyone in Western NY can use.
Our Values
Open source, volunteer-run, no ads, no fees. We think a working communication network should be available to everyone.
Our Goal
Build a reliable communication backbone from the Pennsylvania border to Lake Ontario, east to Rochester — accessible to everyday people using inexpensive devices.
How to Get Involved
Set Up a Node
Add your own node to the network. Every node expands our coverage and strengthens the mesh.
Get StartedHelp Others
Share your knowledge and help newcomers get set up. Join our Discord — the best place to answer questions, troubleshoot nodes, and welcome new members to the WNY mesh community.
Join WNY MeshCore DiscordHost a Repeater
Own a building or have rooftop access? We'll install a free solar-powered repeater — no strings attached and no cost to you.
Learn MoreCommunity Driven
WNY MeshCore is run entirely by volunteers. No company owns it, no one pays a subscription, no one is collecting your data — just people working together to build something useful.
Resources & Links
Ready to Join the Mesh?
Whether you're a ham radio operator, a software developer, or just someone who heard about it and wants to learn more — there's a spot for you.