Free Off-Grid Communication
Uses license-free radio frequencies approved by the FCC — no ham license or permits needed!
Perfect for texting, weather alerts, GPS tracking, sensor monitoring & more
Works without cell towers, Wi-Fi, or internet — true off-grid communication
Open-source software built by a global community of volunteers
Uses LoRa (Long Range) radio and mesh networking so messages hop from node to node across miles
Completely free to use — the only cost is the hardware (~$35 per device)
Who We Are
We are your neighbors building a community mesh network across the area — powered by volunteers and open-source technology.
Michigan Mesh connects homes, farms, and businesses using small, low-power radio nodes. We are looking for community members with tall structures — barns, silos, rooftops — who would like to help extend the network by hosting a small, unobtrusive node. There is no cost or obligation to you!
Community Benefits
A mesh network gives your community powerful tools that work even when the power goes out or cell towers go down.
Emergency Communications
Send and receive text messages during storms, power outages, or other emergencies when cell service fails
Automation & Monitoring
Monitor equipment, receive intrusion alerts, and automate tasks on your property
Weather Monitoring
Share real-time local weather data from connected sensors across the network
All powered by your community
Why Host a Node on Your Property?
Small Device. Big Impact.
A single node on a tall structure can extend the mesh network for miles in every direction, connecting dozens of families to free, reliable communication.
What Does Hosting Involve?
Hosting is Easy & Free:
- We may provide and install a node at no cost to you* — a small solar-powered device about the size of a solar garden light
- The node simply relays messages — it does not access, store, or monitor any of your data
- No internet connection or power outlet needed — nodes run on solar with battery backup
*Free node provided for locations in strategic areas that help extend network coverage.
It's Fun & It's Free!
Send messages to friends and family miles away — no cell plan needed. Track hikes and outdoor adventures with built-in GPS sharing. Experiment with sensors, home automation, and DIY electronics. Join a nationwide community of Meshtastic enthusiasts.
The only cost is the hardware itself — devices start at around $35. The network, the software, and the community are all completely free.
Best of all, Meshtastic operates on FCC-approved, license-free frequencies. Anyone can use it — no amateur radio license, no permits, no paperwork. Just turn on your node and start connecting!