Frequently Asked Questions

Is Meshtastic legal to use in Portugal?

Yes, as long as you respect the technical limits (frequency, power, duty cycle) defined by ANACOM (868 MHz 500 mW 10% duty cycle and 433 MHz 10 mW 10% duty cycle). Because it is the most used and common, we recommend devices for 868 MHz and selecting the correct region in the LoRa settings - “EU_868”.

Can Meshtastic replace a mobile phone?

No. Meshtastic is a complementary communication system, ideal for emergencies, remote areas, events, or outdoor activities, but it does not replace the traditional mobile network.

How many devices can I have on the same Meshtastic network?

Technically, hundreds. However, performance can degrade with too many active nodes, especially if all are sending data frequently. If you have more than one nearby, it is advisable to keep only one in client mode and the rest in client_mute mode so devices are not easily saturated.

What is Meshtastic?

Meshtastic is an open-source project that enables long-range radio communication (LoRa) without internet or mobile network. It uses small, affordable devices to create a decentralized mesh network.

Does Meshtastic need internet to work?

No. Meshtastic uses LoRa radio to communicate between devices. It can work completely offline, although it can integrate with the internet optionally (for example, with a node connected directly via MQTT).

What is the range of Meshtastic?

Range varies by terrain, antenna, atmospheric conditions, and device characteristics. In open fields it can exceed 20 km. In urban environments the range can be smaller due to obstacles, but it depends on external factors.

Can I use an external antenna with Meshtastic?

Yes. It is recommended to use a quality antenna tuned to the frequency (e.g., 868 MHz in Portugal) to get better performance and range.
NOTE: When adding an antenna always consider the power limit for your band (868 MHz at 500 mW and 433 MHz at 10 mW).

My device gets hot. Is that normal?

Some slight heating is normal. However, excessive heat can indicate poor power management, a short circuit, or continuous radio use. If you have a battery you should pay extra attention. Check that the battery is in good condition, especially LiPo batteries. If it seems within expected but is still hot, turn the device off for a few minutes and check if it persists; if so, turn it off immediately and check its condition.

What hardware is compatible with Meshtastic?

Meshtastic firmware is compatible with devices based on ESP32, NRF52, or RP2040 microcontrollers with LoRa radio (sx1262, sx1276, and LR1110), such as LILYGO T3-S3, T-Echo, SeedStudio SenseCAP T1000-E, among others.

Where can I buy compatible devices?

Compatible devices can be purchased from online stores like AliExpress, Amazon, or local distributors. Always verify they are based on ESP32 + LoRa / NRF52 + LoRa or RP2040 + LoRa and have flashable firmware (you can check the compatible device list at https://flasher.meshtastic.org under "Select Target Device").

Do I need a license to use Meshtastic in Portugal?

No license is required to use Meshtastic devices, as long as they comply with ANACOM rules for the 868 MHz band. The LongFast preset, which operates at 869.525 MHz, is within the allowed range for this type of communication.
According to current regulations, the maximum permitted power is 500 mW (27 dBm) for the 868 MHz band and 10 mW (10 dBm) for the 433 MHz band. When you configure the device correctly with the EU_868 region, Meshtastic automatically complies with these legal limits.
However, it is up to the user to ensure these settings are not changed to values outside the legal parameters.
Note: When using the EU_433 region, you must manually adjust the maximum transmit power according to the limits established for that band.

Can I send private messages between two nodes?

Yes. Meshtastic supports end-to-end encryption with public keys (PKI), allowing private messages between two devices on the same network.

Can the app change my device name?

Yes. You can configure the node name (also known as the callsign) in the device settings. This name will be visible to all other users on the network. On the Meshtastic.pt network, correct naming is essential for the proper and efficient operation of the automated network management systems, clear identification of each user, and interpretation of the node operating mode, frequency, and role in the mesh.
We recommend using unique, concise, and informative names, following the suggested structure.

How can I install the Meshtastic app?

The app is available for Android (Google Play Store and F-Droid) and iOS (App Store). You can also use the web app via Bluetooth or USB.

Does the app work offline?

Yes. You can configure Meshtastic devices via Bluetooth, even without internet. Communication between Meshtastic nodes is done via radio (RF), using the frequency and power set in the settings.

Can I see devices on a map?

Yes. Both the Meshtastic app and the community website can display nodes on a map, as long as they are configured to transmit GPS coordinates and have a connection to a gateway.

What do the colored padlocks and red triangles in Meshtastic channels mean?

• 🔓 Yellow (yellow padlock): the channel uses the default vulnerable PSK "AQ==", the key is public.
• 🔐 Green (green padlock): channel with a configured PSK (custom secure key, AES128, AES256, or similar). The channel is private and encrypted.
• 🔴 Red (red padlock): no PSK key is configured in the channel or the channel is public.

The LongFast channel appears with only the yellow padlock 🔓 🟡, meaning it is correctly configured.

If the LongFast channel appears with a yellow padlock and a red triangle 🔓 🔺, it means the channel is using the public key as expected, but it warns that the sent location is precise. To remove the warning, just change the location precision and set a radius according to your privacy preference.

What is a hop limit?

It is the maximum number of hops a message can take before it is discarded. This limit avoids infinite loops and reduces the risk of congestion in the mesh network. In Portugal, a maximum of 4 hops is currently recommended.

Does Meshtastic support sending images or files?

No. The network is designed for short messages and simple data due to bandwidth and transmission time limitations of LoRa technology.

What is a mesh network?

It is a network where each device (node) can relay messages to other nodes. This way, even if two devices are not within direct range, they can communicate through intermediate nodes.

What is a channel in Meshtastic?

A channel is like a private, encrypted room where nodes share messages. Each channel uses a pre-shared key (PSK), ensuring that only devices configured with that key can participate in the communication.

How does encryption work in Meshtastic?

Meshtastic uses AES-CTR encryption to protect messages transmitted on channels. In addition, you can enable end-to-end encryption (E2EE) based on PKI, allowing secure communications between two specific devices.

What is an MQTT gateway?

It is a node connected to the internet that publishes and/or subscribes to messages from other nodes via an MQTT broker. It allows linking local Meshtastic networks and the internet (for example: mqtt.meshtastic.pt).

Can I use Meshtastic as a navigation GPS?

Not directly. Meshtastic can share your GPS position with other nodes, but it does not provide maps or routes like a traditional GPS navigator.

Does Meshtastic show heading or speed?

If the device has GPS that provides data such as heading or speed, that information can be transmitted. Otherwise, that data is not estimated or included in messages.

Do I need GPS to use Meshtastic?

No. GPS is useful, but not required. It enables additional features, such as showing location on the map and including coordinates in messages. However, Meshtastic can be used perfectly for exchanging text messages between nodes.

Does Meshtastic track my location?

Only if your device has GPS enabled and is configured to share location. Even then, that information is only shared with other nodes on the channel.

Can I use multiple channels on the same device?

Yes. Meshtastic allows up to 8 channels per device, but only one is the primary channel used to send and receive user messages.

Can I use Meshtastic with custom code?

Yes. The firmware is open-source and allows modifications. You can compile your own firmware with advanced settings, additional commands, or custom integrations.

What is a modem preset?

It defines how the radio operates (transmission speed, power, etc). Some presets are optimized for range, others for speed or mobile use.

How do I install Meshtastic firmware on a device?

Use the official flasher.meshtastic.org tool in Chrome (PC or Android), or install via USB with Meshtastic Flasher or another tool specific to your device.

Can I change the interface language?

Yes. The mobile app and firmware support multiple languages, including Portuguese.

What is the region setting?

It defines the legal radio parameters (frequency, power, duty cycle) according to the country where the device will be used. For example, in Portugal you should select EU_868 (for devices on 868 MHz) or EU_433 (for devices on 433 MHz).

Can I contribute to the Meshtastic project?

Yes! You can contribute with code, documentation, translations, tests, or simply participating in the community. The project is on GitHub: github.com/meshtastic

How can I promote or support the project?

You can share with friends, use the system at events or activities, create educational content, or donate equipment to the community.

Can I create my own private network?

Yes. Just configure your channel with your own PSK key. Then only devices with that key can communicate with each other.

My device does not appear in the app. What can I do?

• Check that Bluetooth is active;
• Reinstall the app;
• Restart the device;
• Try pairing via USB cable.
• If nothing works, check the manufacturer manual.

Meshtastic is not saving settings. Why?

This may indicate a problem with device memory or power. Check that you are using a suitable USB cable and try reflashing the firmware.

Messages are delayed. Is that normal?

Yes, in mesh networks with many nodes or long messages, there can be delays. Remember that LoRa is low speed, ideal for simple communications.

My device does not turn on or has a black screen. What do I do?

Try recharging the battery, using a different USB cable, or reinstalling the firmware. If it persists, check that the bootloader is functional (hold the BOOT button while connecting via USB).

Messages are not being delivered. Why?

Possible causes:

• Wrong channel or PSK key;
• Out of range;
• Antenna not connected;
• Device in the wrong mode (e.g., TRACK);
• Outdated firmware.

Can I use Meshtastic the same way as WhatsApp/Telegram?

No. Meshtastic does not work like WhatsApp or Telegram, which use the internet for continuous, immediate message delivery. Instead, it communicates by radio in a decentralized, asynchronous system, closer to how IRC works. Because all devices share the same radio channel, it is important to use airtime responsibly, avoiding excessive short messages in sequence. It is recommended to condense content into fewer messages whenever possible, preserving network efficiency and ensuring that all users have room to communicate. In LongFast mode, for example, each message can contain up to 200 characters, which allows more information to be transmitted without compromising channel use.

Should we use a communication etiquette for SMS, similar to the Q code used by ham radio operators?

Although it is not necessary to adopt a formal system like the Q code used by radio amateurs, it is recommended to follow some good practices of concision when communicating via Meshtastic. Abbreviating words, using common acronyms, and avoiding repetition helps reduce the number of characters per message, making communication more efficient and preserving airtime, especially given the transmission limits imposed by the duty cycle. Clarity should always be maintained to avoid compromising understanding.

What should I do if a user is spamming the LongFast channel?

If you encounter a user sending excessive messages (spam) while on the LongFast channel, the best approach is to warn them politely, explaining that this behavior consumes network airtime and harms all participants. If the user persists, even after being warned by you and others, you can use the "Ignore" option in the app: open the node list, select the device, and enable that option, preventing your radio from receiving messages from that node. Additionally, it is recommended to notify the community administrators, who have their own tools to handle abuse.

I found a node called “Meshtastic XXX” behaving oddly with many hops. What can I do?

If you find a node with a generic name and unusual behavior (such as an excessive number of hops or an incorrect mode), the best course is to contact the user directly via the LongFast channel or a private message (DM), politely. Introduce the community by sharing the site https://meshtastic.pt and the link with the recommended settings: https://meshtastic.pt/getstarted/. Explain that it is important to follow the defined parameters strictly, and that any advanced options in the app that are not mentioned in the guidelines should be left at factory values, ensuring correct and efficient integration into the network.

I saw on YouTube that Range Test mode is for testing range. Can I use it?

No. Use of Range Test mode is forbidden across the entire network. This mode sends automatic messages with the text “SEQXXX” at short intervals, causing excessive traffic (spam) that severely harms communication for other users. Activating this mode may lead to your radio being ignored by the other nodes on the network. To test range, use manual methods.

I am a ham radio operator, should I use HAM mode?

No. Even if you are a ham radio operator, it is not recommended to enable HAM mode in the “User” section of the app, because that option disables all device encryption, preventing communication with the Meshtastic.pt network and other users. In addition, this mode forces constant callsign repetition, which greatly increases duty cycle and may be interpreted by the automated system as abusive behavior (flapping), leading to temporary or permanent blocking of your node. For more information, see: meshtastic.org/docs/faq/#amateur-radio-ham

What is the best firmware? What is the recommended minimum version and why?

We always recommend using the latest Meshtastic Beta firmware, as it includes the newest performance improvements, bug fixes, and radio-frequency optimizations that are fundamental to the proper functioning of the network. Although it is possible to test other versions, it is essential to read the release notes before updating. Due to the constant evolution of the project, older versions may show behaviors incompatible with the current network, so the recommended minimum version is always the latest available on the Beta line.