When it comes to doing just about anything, there is the right way and there is the janky way that still works. My Meshtastic N+1 Theory could be either one depending on the context.
What I mean is, this simple idea would work for setting up permanent coverage around your home but it wouldn’t necessarily be the right way if done the jankiest way possible. However, if you are setting up an ad-hoc mesh on the side of a mountain, this might be pretty close to the right way.
Alright, I know I have some explaining to do and I’ll start by saying that if you don’t know what Meshtastic is, check out Part 1 of this series. Now, onto the N+1 Theory…
What is the N+1 Theory?
The N+1 Theory is a simple, practical framework for smoothing out some hiccups with Meshtastic. Here’s how it works:
- N represents the number of people in your group who need to communicate.
- You add 1 extra device—the “+1” node—to improve mesh performance and reliability.
For instance:
- If it is just you, N would be 1 and you would need N (1) + 1 = 2 devices.
- For a team of 7, you’d need N (7) + 1 = 8 devices.
The “+1” node isn’t just a spare; it’s a strategic addition. By placing this device in a location that optimizes coverage—such as on a hill, at a central point, or in an area with poor connectivity—it strengthens the entire mesh. This ensures that everyone in the group remains connected, even in challenging environments.
Why Refer to This as Janky?
The beauty of this idea is that it can be done in a pretty quick and dirty way. It could be as simple as pulling a node up into a tree on a rope, running a node up an extendable painter’s pole, or even using a magnet to slap it on the side of a metal building… all of which I do on the regular. They all work.
Of course, for a more permanent situation, you may want to install a powered unit outdoors like which I have also done. That unit then serves as your +1 node – your first “hop” into the mesh.
This works because Meshtastic is a mesh network where every node functions as a repeater. The messages are intelligently routed across the mesh and therefore as long as any one node can hit another, there is a great chance that the messages will end up where you want them. So, by ensuring that at least one node is strategically placed, you help the entire mesh.
Meshtastic even expressly supports this kind of scenario with their “Client” and “Client_Mute” roles. I highly recommend you read up on roles when you are setting up your nodes.
Wrap Up
I know this isn’t especially ground-breaking or even that smart. It’s just something I had to learn by trial and error. So… I gave it a name and now I’ll be rich and famous for it… probably.
I will note that I am working with a new type of node, credit card sized radios from Seeed Studio called the SenseCap T1000-E that makes this concept especially convenient and easy to do the janky way. Stay tuned for more info on those devices.
Whether you are doing it the janky way or the right way, I highly recommend having that +1 node in a strategic location to improve your Meshtastic experience.
