"How can I set up a Mesh Network ?"

While each mesh is different, common themes emerge, and there is an established pattern for good practice in setting up a mesh.

How many users do we need to set up a viable mesh ?

Typically a commercial mesh becomes viable with around 50 domestic users, or 20 business users. Co-op meshes that are run by volunteers have lower operating overheads, and they can become economical with around 20 domestic users.

What are the key factors in setting up a successful mesh ?

Successful meshes have a clear economic case, enthusiastic users, good marketing and competent technical operations. Good planning is an important part of the mesh installation. While most of the early attention on the mesh may be focussed on the technology, the real make or break factors are nearly all in marketing and management.

What is the range of the Mesh ?

You can build a mesh to whatever size you need. Each link in the mesh relies on a good wireless connection between one meshbox and the next, but there is no absolute limit to the number of links in the mesh, so you can cover any area with the mesh. Wireless links between mesh nodes can be in the range of 500m to 5km, depending upon the terrain, antenna and output power.

Do we need professional help or training to set up a mesh ?

Many mesh projects employ a qualified and experienced installer to survey, plan, and install the mesh. Often installation and training go hand in hand. In this way the mesh can be installed quickly and competently, and then once up and running, the local operators can continue with ongoing operations and grow independently. Some roof-work will be needed, and a qualified, insured contractor should be used to do this.

What is the difference between a co-op and a commercial mesh operation ?

Technically these projects use the same tools, to deliver the same service, in the same way. Typically co-op meshes have volunteer management and commercial services use a commercial company with professional support services. Normally a commercial project is on a larger scale, while co-op projects are smaller, but this is not always the case.

What equipment do we need ?

Each user in the wireless network needs a wireless network adapter, capable of reaching back to the nearest mesh node. Enough Mesh nodes are needed to interconnect together and connect the users back to the gateway. Aerials and cables are also needed for each Mesh node. Aerials may be needed for users who are further away from a node.

What kind of internet gateway do we need ?

Options for the internet gateway depend upon local availability. Often there are leased line options available, but sometimes these are not economical. Satellite internet connections are often more affordable than leased lines, but the service may not be able to support so many users, or to deliver as much bandwidth, as more expensive options.

How much does it cost ?

A typical 50 user mesh can be set up for an all in cost of between £5k and £10k GPB, which is around $8k USD to $16k USD. Operators with very tight budgets can save money by doing their own installation work and using recycled PCs to build the mesh nodes. Mesh networks are very extendable, so often a smaller mesh can grow over time into a much larger one.

Do we need a licence ?

This depends upon the laws of the country that you are in. Often the 2.4Ghz wifi radio networking equipment is "licence free", however sometimes it is necessary to get a licence to operate commercial internet services. As an internet service provider you may be subject to specific legislation, even if you don't need to get a licence you will most likely find that you need to conform to local regulations.

What sort of pay back period can we expect ?

A busy mesh, with good management and reasonable subscription rates, should be able to pay back the initial installation costs within 12-18 months.

What resources are available from LocustWorld to help us ?

LocustWorld can provide a wide range of engineering, planning, support and maintenance services. Working with a world-wide network of qualified service partners, you may find that LocustWorld services are available locally.