Our club is considering adding internet linking capability to our 2m repeater and we're debating between IRLP and EchoLink. IRLP has been around since 1997 and is another way to communicate using Amateur Radio and VoIP, while EchoLink allows radio amateurs to communicate using Voice over IP technology and is essentially like other VoIP applications but with the unique addition of linking to an amateur radio station's transceiver.

I understand both systems have their strengths - IRLP uses 100% authentication system to ensure connecting nodes are authorized for amateur bands and requires a radio as entry/exit point, while EchoLink offers more flexibility with computer and mobile access. What are the practical differences from a repeater owner's perspective?

Looking for real-world experiences from those who have implemented either system.

We run both on our repeater using EchoIRLP. EchoIRLP allows one interface to run two separate linking systems - IRLP and EchoLink - all out of one single box. IRLP is rock solid and secure, while EchoLink gives more user flexibility. The combination works great for us - users get the best of both worlds.

EchoLink is very popular but has one fundamental flaw that makes it less than desirable for repeater linking - the potential for feedback loops. We've seen nets collapse when multiple EchoLink nodes create ping-ponging. IRLP's reflector system is much more stable for group communications and emergency nets.

From an implementation standpoint, internet connections at remote repeater sites can be challenging with no phone lines, cable, or fiber - we use point-to-point RF links to get connectivity. Both systems work well once you have reliable internet. I'd recommend starting with IRLP for simplicity, then adding EchoLink later if needed.