AREDN — Amateur Radio Emergency Data Network
AREDN (Amateur Radio Emergency Data Network) is an open-source firmware project that turns off-the-shelf commercial WiFi hardware into a high-speed, self-healing broadband mesh network operating under Part 97 amateur radio authorisation. An AREDN mesh can carry voice over IP (VoIP), video, data, and internet traffic at megabit speeds over amateur radio frequencies — providing resilient communications infrastructure where commercial networks have failed.
Mesh networking fundamentals
Unlike a conventional repeater with a single point of failure, a mesh network routes traffic through multiple nodes simultaneously. If one node fails, traffic automatically reroutes through other paths. Each AREDN node is simultaneously a radio, a router, and a network switch. Nodes in range of each other automatically associate and exchange routing information, building a self-organising network without manual configuration.
AREDN nodes run on commercial off-the-shelf hardware — primarily Ubiquiti and MikroTik devices designed for outdoor WiFi. The AREDN firmware replaces the factory firmware, reconfigures the radio for amateur band operation, and implements the mesh routing protocol. Hardware costs run $50–200 per node.
What AREDN carries in EmComm
Because AREDN is a standard IP network, it can carry any IP application. In EmComm deployments this typically includes VoIP phone systems allowing served agencies to communicate by phone without commercial infrastructure, video from surveillance or damage assessment cameras, local Winlink email servers running on the mesh, collaborative tools like shared whiteboards and forms, and internet access shared through the mesh if one node has a connection. This capability level significantly exceeds conventional voice radio and approaches professional emergency communications infrastructure.
Check for an existing local AREDN network
Before building your own node, find out if your local ARES group or ham radio club already has AREDN infrastructure. Many urban and suburban areas have existing networks. Check the AREDN node map at aredn.org and ask your EC. Connecting an additional node to an existing network is far simpler than starting from scratch.
Get supported hardware
The AREDN project maintains a list of supported hardware at aredn.org. Ubiquiti Rocket M series and MikroTik hAP ac lite are among the most commonly used nodes. Buy new or used — AREDN works on older hardware as long as it is on the supported list.
Flash the AREDN firmware
Download the correct firmware image for your specific hardware model from aredn.org and follow the flashing instructions. The process is similar to flashing any open-source router firmware. The AREDN documentation is thorough and device-specific. Allow 30–60 minutes for your first flash.
Configure and deploy
Configure your node with your callsign (required by Part 97), node name, and channel settings. Position the node for line-of-sight to other nodes — AREDN on 2.4 and 5.8 GHz requires reasonable line-of-sight for reliable links. Mount outdoor nodes on rooftops, towers, or high points. Test link quality with the built-in diagnostics before declaring the node operational.
| Band | Frequency Range | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 900 MHz | 902–928 MHz | Long | Better penetration, lower throughput — good for longer links |
| 2.4 GHz | 2.397–2.462 GHz | Medium | Most common starting band — wide hardware availability |
| 3.4 GHz | 3.4–3.5 GHz | Medium-long | Less congestion than 2.4 GHz — requires specific hardware |
| 5.8 GHz | 5.650–5.925 GHz | Shorter | Highest throughput — requires clear line-of-sight |
Is AREDN legal to operate?
Yes — AREDN operates under FCC Part 97 amateur radio authorisation. The control operator must be a licensed amateur, the station must broadcast the operator's callsign, and the network must not be used for commercial purposes. AREDN automatically broadcasts your callsign as required by Part 97.
What licence do I need for AREDN?
A Technician licence or higher is required. Most AREDN frequencies are in bands available to Technician operators. As with all amateur radio, the control operator bears responsibility for proper operation.
How far can AREDN nodes communicate?
On 5.8 GHz with directional antennas, links of 20–50 kilometres are achievable with clear line-of-sight. On 2.4 GHz, 5–15 kilometres is typical for well-positioned outdoor nodes. On 900 MHz, links of 50+ kilometres have been demonstrated. Obstructions significantly reduce practical range.
Do I need internet for AREDN to be useful in EmComm?
No — the primary EmComm value of AREDN is precisely that it does not require internet. A local AREDN mesh can carry VoIP, video, email (using a local Winlink or other server on the mesh), and data between served agency sites without any commercial infrastructure. Internet access can be shared through the mesh if one node has connectivity, but it is not required for the network to function.