Rebroadcast Mode: ALL_SKIP_DECODING
The rebroadcast mode controls how a node handles incoming packets for retransmission. For repeater deployments, ALL_SKIP_DECODING is strongly recommended.
What ALL_SKIP_DECODING does
In this mode, the node rebroadcasts valid LoRa packets without attempting to decrypt them. This has several important advantages:
- Lower CPU usage and power draw
—- no decryption/re-encryption work per packet - Works with all encrypted channels
—- the repeater can relay messages for private channels even without knowing the channel key (PSK). This is essential for a public repeater serving multiple user groups. - Preserves end-to-end encryption
—- messages are never decrypted at the repeater, maintaining the security model - Faster retransmission
—- less processing time per packet means faster relay
Setting ALL_SKIP_DECODING via app
- Connect to your device in the Meshtastic app
- Go to Config → LoRa Settings
- Find Rebroadcast Mode and select ALL_SKIP_DECODING
- Save and allow the device to reboot
Setting ALL_SKIP_DECODING via CLI
meshtastic --set lora.rebroadcast_mode ALL_SKIP_DECODING
Other rebroadcast modes (for reference)
| Mode | Behavior | Use case |
|---|---|---|
ALL_SKIP_DECODING | Rebroadcasts without decrypting | Recommended for all repeater deployments |
ALL | Decrypts, then re-encrypts and rebroadcasts | Only if you need to filter or inspect content (not typical) |
LOCAL_ONLY | Does not relay to other nodes | Not suitable for repeaters |
DISABLED | No rebroadcasting | Not suitable for repeaters |