Network Access using TCP/IP over WiFi/Mesh Amateur Radio

Amateur radio mesh networking uses commercially available WiFi radios and antennas operating on amateur radio spectrum using amateur radio rules (FCC Part 97) to provide automated WiFi networking. The mesh software automatically discovers and configures routing to other neighboring nodes, making it simple and fast to deploy a multi-site network. Because of the nature of microwave propagation and mesh networking protocols, these networks are best used within individual cities or locales.

TCP/IP over WiFiMesh Amateur Radio can be used to access the following SCCo ARES/RACES services:

• Packet BBS Service
  • User Access: Users can log into the packet BBSs using the Telnet protocol. Outpost (client packet software) is configured for a telnet interface instead of a TNC interface. After that, functionality for sending and receiving messages is the same. This eliminates the need to have a separate radio/TNC for packet vs. e-mail access.
  • BBS Forwarding: Other packet BBSs can connect to the SCCo BBS network using AX.25 over (i.e. inside of) an IP or UDP tunnel. The AMPRnet uses AXIP tunnels. Individual BBS-to-BBS forwarding links can use AXIP or AXUDP, depending on the capabilities of the two BBSs on the link.
• Electronic Mail Service
  • Standard e-mail client software can be used over the WiFi connection to access the e-mail service.
• Intranet Access Service
  • Access services within or connected to the SCCo ARES/RACES network.

• Amateur radio mesh networks are typically local or city-wide networks. We do not currently anticipate direct network connections via mesh radio to a SCCo ARES/RACES county-wide network hub site.
• If a city/agency has an existing TCP/IP over WiFi Part 15 connection to the SCCo ARES/RACES network, they may wish to connect their mesh network to that connection and allow mesh network users access to the rest of the SCCo ARES/RACES network. We're currently investigating how best to handle addressing and security issues for that configuration.

• TCP/IP over WiFi/Mesh Station Configuration Diagram (PDF)
• Consider the following when building your user stations:
• City/Agency EOC/DOC Equipment
• Computer
• Printer
• Software
• Network
• Firewall
• Power
• There are currently two software development efforts working on mesh networking software for hams.  The software you choose will determine the hardware (radio and antenna) you can use. Be sure to read about hardware compatibility on the web site of the software you plan to use before you purchase any equipment.
  • Amateur Radio Emergency Data Network (AREDN)
    • Supports a wide variety of hardware and several frequency bands.
  • Broadband HamNet (BBHN)
    • The original mesh software for hams.

Presentations

Application Notes

Design/Planning Resources

Training

User Group

Mesh Software Forums