Mesh networking and the future of digital inclusion
How MANETs and decentralised systems reshape connectivity for the 2.6 billion people still offline.
For most of us, connectivity is a given. But for 2.6 billion people, the internet remains out of reach. Enter MANETs (mobile ad hoc networks) and the new wave of mesh networking. These decentralised systems let devices connect directly, forming resilient, self-healing networks without relying on traditional telecom infrastructure.
My work on Meshara showed me how transformative this technology can be. Meshara nodes connect directly to smartphones and laptops, need no SIM card or special hardware, and are solar-powered for true autonomy.
Mesh networking is not just a technical innovation. It is a movement toward digital justice. By helping local communities build and own their networks, we can bridge the digital divide and create a more inclusive future.