Free, decentralized emergency messaging powered by community-hosted Meshtastic nodes. We provide, configure, and maintain the hardware. You provide the elevation.

Why We Are Building This

When the August 11, 2026 derecho tore through Lake County, Northwest Indiana, and neighboring Illinois, traditional cellular and internet infrastructure failed thousands of homes and businesses. Power lines snapped, cell towers became congested or went dark, and vital communication channels broke down when people needed them most. Us and many others used our node mounted on our building to relay traffic in the Hobart, IN area to keep in touch with others and find out what’s going on.

Digital Forge Systems is building a community-wide, off-grid LoRa mesh network running on open-source Meshtastic protocols. This network does not rely on cellular service, power grid availability, or commercial internet providers. It allows anyone with an inexpensive, low-power device to send emergency text messages, coordinate safety checks, and share critical alerts across towns without subscription fees or central points of failure.

To blanket Northwest Indiana with reliable line-of-sight coverage, we are expanding our backbone of high-elevation repeater and router nodes.

How the Host Program Works

You do not need technical expertise, specialized licensing, or equipment purchases to participate.

• 100% Hardware Provided: Digital Forge Systems supplies custom-built, weatherproof enclosures, tuned 915 MHz antennas, and industrial-grade LoRa nodes (solar-powered or AC line-powered).
• Zero Cost to You: We retain ownership and handle all firmware flashing, remote telemetry monitoring, solar battery maintenance, and network configuration.
• No Access to Your Private Network: Meshtastic nodes operate strictly over license-free UHF radio frequencies. They do not tap into your local Wi-Fi, Ethernet, or business network.
• Flexible Power Options: Most deployments use self-contained, micro-solar arrays with battery backups that operate completely off-grid. Where accessible, standard 5V/12V low-draw power connections can also be used.

Ideal Host Sites

Elevation and clear line of sight are critical for LoRa RF propagation. We are actively scouting locations in Lake, Porter, and surrounding counties that fit any of the following profiles:

Property Type	Vantage Point	Installation Method
Commercial & Industrial Buildings	Rooftop parapets, elevator penthouses, HVAC superstructures	Non-penetrating weighted roof mounts or clamp brackets
Ham Radio & Tower Owners	Rohn towers, guyed masts, communication towers	Standard pipe mast U-bolt hardware
Agricultural & Rural Facilities	Grain silos, barn roofs, high-standing outbuildings	Wall-mount J-poles or apex brackets
Multi-Story Residential	High-pitch roof apexes, chimney brackets, attic vents	Standard non-invasive exterior brackets

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Meshtastic?

Meshtastic is an open-source, decentralized mesh communication project that uses LoRa (Long Range) radio frequencies. Nodes communicate directly with each other, hopping encrypted and public messages across long distances without cellular towers or internet service.

Does hosting a node cost me any electricity?

Our standalone solar builds require zero electricity from your building. If an AC-powered node is installed, it typically consumes under 2 watts of power, which amounts to just a few cents per month.

Will this interfere with my Wi-Fi, TV, or emergency services?

No. In the United States, Meshtastic operates on the license-free 902 to 928 MHz ISM band using very low power (under 1 watt). It does not interfere with 2.4 GHz/5 GHz Wi-Fi, cell phones, or public safety radio systems.

What happens if the equipment needs service?

Digital Forge Systems handles all hardware servicing, antenna re-tuning, and firmware upgrades. We coordinate with you in advance for any rare physical access needed.

Host Application / Site Submission Form

Have a tall structure or high vantage point in Northwest Indiana? Fill out the details below and our team will evaluate line-of-sight coverage and schedule a site assessment.