What is a Room Server?
What is a MeshCore Room Server?
A Room Server is a store-and-forward bulletin board that runs directly on a LoRa node running MeshCore firmware. It acts as a shared message board for the mesh community — any node that can reach the room server can post and read messages without needing internet access or a central server.
Key Characteristics
- Storage: Holds up to 32 unread messages in RAM. Messages are cleared on power cycle — there is no persistent storage.
- Access control: Three-tier password system (Admin, Guest, and unauthenticated read-only).
- Repeater hybrid: A room server can also be configured as a repeater with
set repeat on, but this is a trade-off — room servers benefit from an indoor location for USB/Bluetooth administration, whereas repeaters perform best with a high external antenna. - Radio requirements: The room server’s radio preset must match the network’s companions and repeaters or it will not be discoverable.
Password Tiers
| Role | Default Password | Permissions |
|---|---|---|
| Admin | password | Full control: manage users, delete messages, change all settings |
| Guest | hello | Read and write messages |
| None (no password) | N/A | Read-only access |
Warning: Both default passwords must be changed immediately after first login. The default admin password password and guest password hello are publicly known.
Why Room Servers Matter
Room servers enable asynchronous community communication entirely over the mesh. A traveler passing through can read recent area messages, a neighborhood can coordinate during a power outage, or volunteers can leave notes for the next person who checks in — all without any internet connection or cellular infrastructure.