MeshCore Protocol Overview
MeshCore is an open-source mesh networking protocol built on LoRa radio hardware. It was designed as a next-generation alternative to flooding-based mesh protocols, prioritizing efficient routing, battery life, and reliable message delivery.
The core idea: path discovery over flooding
Many mesh protocols work by flooding: when a message is sent, every device in the network rebroadcasts it, and the message eventually reaches (or fails to reach) its destination. This is simple but wasteful — it generates heavy radio traffic and drains batteries.
MeshCore instead uses path discovery: before sending a message, it identifies an efficient route from sender to recipient, then transmits along that path only. This means:
- Less redundant radio traffic on the network
- Significantly lower power consumption
- More reliable delivery, especially on busy networks
- Better scalability as the number of nodes grows
Encryption
Private messages in MeshCore are end-to-end encrypted by default using AES-256. Only the intended recipient can decrypt the message — not intermediate nodes relaying it, not the network operator, not anyone else. Public channel messages are visible to all nodes in range.
Self-healing
If a relay node goes offline, MeshCore automatically discovers an alternative path. There is no single point of failure. The network adapts to changes in topology without any manual intervention.
Technical specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Frequency (US/Canada) | 915 MHz ISM band (license-free) |
| Modulation | LoRa (Long Range) |
| Encryption | AES-256 (private messages, default) |
| Data rate | 0.3 – 50 kbps (configuration dependent) |
| Transmit power | Up to 1 watt (FCC Part 15 compliant) |
| Topology | Mesh with path discovery routing |