The Serval Mesh
The Serval Mesh is an open-source software that allows mobile phones to communicate in a mesh network without cellular coverage. It uses Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and peer-to-peer protocols to connect phones directly to each other.
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The Serval Mesh: Open-Source Mobile Mesh Network Software
An open-source software for mobile mesh networking without cellular coverage, utilizing Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and peer-to-peer protocols.
What is The Serval Mesh?
The Serval Mesh is an open-source software project that enables mobile phones to communicate in areas without cellular coverage by creating mesh networks. It allows phones to connect directly to each other via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and peer-to-peer protocols rather than relying on cell towers.
Some key features of The Serval Mesh include:
- Enables texts, voice calls, file sharing between phones connected to the mesh network
- Creates robust, adaptable networks that can connect many users spread over long distances
- Uses smartphones' existing radios and hardware to communicate without additional equipment
- Provides critical communications during disasters, events with poor cellular infrastructure
- Apps for messaging, forums, offline Wikipedia access, voice calls, and file share
- Open source software that works on Android and some Linux devices
The Serval Mesh aims to democratize communications by empowering user communities to operate their own networks independently. Its disaster-relief applications provide communications vital for rescue efforts and saves lives by enabling calls for help. Overall, it gives people options to connect without relying exclusively on vulnerable cellular carrier networks.
The Serval Mesh Features
Features
- Creates mesh networks using WiFi, Bluetooth and peer-to-peer protocols
- Allows communication between phones without cellular coverage
- Supports voice calls, text messaging, file sharing over the mesh
- Works with Android phones
- Open source software
Pricing
- Open Source
Pros
Enables communication in areas without cellular connectivity
Free and open source
Decentralized network not dependent on cellular infrastructure
Uses existing hardware in phones (WiFi, Bluetooth, etc)
Cons
Requires many users in an area to create an effective mesh
Only available on Android currently
Setup and configuration can be complex for non-technical users
Official Links
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