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Network Operating Guidelines

These guidelines exist to ensure reliable, fair, and safe operation of the Justin, Texas Mesh Network.

📡 General Principles

  • The mesh is a shared community resource
  • Bandwidth and airtime are limited
  • Reliability matters more than throughput
  • Simplicity beats complexity

🧱 Node Types

Fixed Nodes

  • Prefer stable power and mounting
  • Use conservative transmit power
  • Maintain reasonable beacon intervals

Mobile Nodes

  • Expect intermittent connectivity
  • Avoid excessive position updates
  • Disable unnecessary services when mobile

📶 Bandwidth & Airtime

  • Keep messages short and purposeful
  • Avoid automated chatter or loops
  • Limit telemetry unless needed
  • Disable unused channels

🔐 Privacy & Security

  • Do not assume privacy
  • Avoid sharing sensitive personal data
  • Encryption may be used but is not guaranteed
  • MQTT and gateways should be used thoughtfully

🆘 Emergency Operations

During emergencies: - Reduce non-essential traffic - Prioritize status and welfare messages - Follow instructions from coordinating groups when applicable - Do not spread rumors or unverified information

🧪 Experimental Use

MeshCore and experimental features: - May be unstable - Should not interfere with production mesh - Must be clearly labeled in documentation

🚫 Prohibited Use

  • Commercial exploitation
  • Intentional interference
  • Harassment or abuse
  • Unsafe RF practices

🛠️ Maintenance

Operators are encouraged to: - Keep firmware updated - Monitor node health - Share coverage gaps or issues