Node Setup

• Time: about 2 hours
• Cost: about $150

You can join the mesh by host a public access point (AP.) In these instructions, we will cover how to deploy an AP that is privacy-enabled by default, and allows users to connect to in-mesh services, and allows you to share an Internet connection with your neighbors. The whole setup process takes about 2 hours from start to finish. The necessary hardware is listed below, and instructions for everything from flashing the firmware to placing the mesh point are covered.

Note: Set yourself up for success, and join the Mass Mesh AP Hosts chat room before you begin. Something will go wrong during the setup process, and it's best to have experienced friends ready to help when it does.

Materials

• 

  Ubiquiti UAP AC Mesh

• 

  RPF Raspberry Pi 4 Model B

• 

  microSD Card (4GB+)

• 

  Ethernet Cable (Three sections, cut to length)

• 

  PoE Injector (One should come with the UAP AC Mesh if you buy it new)

• 

  One Paperclip (Seriously, these come in handy)

This page will help you set up your mesh node each step of the way. We have done plenty of research to provide you with informed recommendations on what works best. If you have any questions about this process, or if you just want to be in touch, please join one of our chat channels.

Choose Your Devices

Please see Hardware Bundles for more information.

Flash The Firmware

The procedure to flash the firmware varies from device to device. The devices page contains links to tutorials for each listed device.

Refer to the wiki page(s) of your chosen your device(s) to find their corresponding flashing tutorial. Or, if you prefer, bring your hardware to one of our weekly meetups, and we will be happy to flash it for you!

Configure Your Node

The pre-configured Mass Mesh firmware aims to have as much as possible done out of the box.

If you are using stock OpenWrt, see Manual Configuration for how to replicate our settings.

Install Your Node

In addition to providing power to the node, you may also want to use the following ports on your device:

• The WAN port (on multi-port devices) may be connected to a spare LAN port on your regular router (or directly to your modem) to share your internet connection with the mesh
• The LAN port may be connected to a switch or any device to provide internet to that device through the mesh

Tips For Best Results

In order to communicate on the mesh, your node must be able to talk to other nodes in your area. Here are some suggestions to help maximize your signal:

• Weather resistant nodes should be mounted on the outside of the house or to a column facing the street
• Indoor nodes should be placed on or near windows facing the street and other buildings
• Nodes will work best if they have a direct line of sight to each other

Seeking Assistance

If you need help at any point, get in touch with us online or in person.