Winlink — Email Over Radio
Winlink is a worldwide radio messaging system that allows licensed amateur radio operators to send and receive email using radio instead of the internet. When internet infrastructure fails during a disaster, Winlink-equipped operators can pass formal message traffic — ICS-213 forms, welfare messages, resource requests — using HF or VHF radio through a network of automated relay stations, or peer-to-peer between two stations with no infrastructure at all.
Network architecture
Winlink operates through a network of Radio Message Servers (RMS nodes) — automated stations operated by volunteers that are connected both to the radio network and to the internet. When an operator sends a message via Winlink, their station connects to the nearest RMS node using radio, uploads the message, and the node forwards it over the internet to the recipient's email address or Winlink account. The critical EmComm feature is peer-to-peer (P2P) operation — two Winlink-equipped stations can exchange messages directly over radio with no RMS node or internet connection required.
Modes and connection types
On HF the most popular modes are VARA HF (software-based, excellent performance, free for basic use) and ARDOP (software-based, free). PACTOR provides faster throughput and better performance in poor band conditions but requires an expensive hardware TNC ($500+). On VHF/UHF, Winlink uses packet radio or VARA FM. VARA HF and VARA FM are now the most popular choices for new operators because they require no dedicated hardware TNC — just a computer, a sound card interface, and a transceiver.
Create a Winlink account
Register at winlink.org using your callsign. The registration is free. Your callsign becomes your Winlink email address — [email protected].
Install Winlink Express and VARA
Download Winlink Express free from winlink.org. Install VARA HF and VARA FM (free versions) for the best performance without hardware cost. Mac and Linux users can use Pat Winlink.
Set up your radio interface
Connect your transceiver to your computer using a sound card interface (SignaLink USB, RigBlaster, or similar) or a radio with built-in USB audio like the Icom IC-7300. Configure Winlink Express with your sound card and CAT control settings.
Test before you need it
Use Winlink Express's channel selector to find an active RMS node and make a test connection during normal conditions. Send a test message to confirm your setup works end-to-end. Practice peer-to-peer connections with another local operator. The time to learn Winlink is not during an activation.
Structured message traffic
One of Winlink's most valuable EmComm features is sending completed ICS forms as structured messages. Winlink Express includes templates for ICS-213 (General Message), ICS-214 (Activity Log), ICS-309 (Communications Log), Red Cross damage assessment forms, and others. These templates render as properly formatted forms at the receiving end, integrating directly into served agency workflows. Sending a completed ICS-213 over radio to an EOC is exactly the kind of capability that makes Winlink indispensable in a real activation.
Training and exercises
Regular Winlink practice is essential. Many ARES groups run Winlink check-in exercises where members send a standard form to the group's Winlink address. The Winlink Wednesday exercise programme provides a regular structured opportunity to practice making RMS connections on HF. Participate in these exercises regularly and practice P2P connections with other local operators to ensure your complete setup works without internet.
Do I need expensive PACTOR hardware?
No — VARA HF provides excellent performance using only a computer sound card interface and a standard HF transceiver. A SignaLink USB or RigBlaster ($100–150) is all the additional hardware you need. Most EmComm operators start with VARA HF and only consider PACTOR hardware if their group specifically requires it.
Can Winlink work when there is no internet anywhere?
Yes — peer-to-peer Winlink allows two Winlink-equipped stations to exchange messages directly over radio with absolutely no internet connection or RMS node. This is the critical EmComm feature for infrastructure-down scenarios.
What frequency do I use for Winlink?
Winlink Express's channel selector automatically identifies active nodes and their frequencies when you are planning online. For VHF, your local ARES group will have a designated Winlink gateway frequency. Check the RMS list at winlink.org for current active stations.
Is Winlink legal under FCC Part 97?
Yes — Winlink is legal for licensed amateur operators under FCC Part 97. Messages must be unencrypted plain text and must comply with FCC rules on third-party traffic. Winlink is specifically permitted for emergency and disaster relief communications and is widely endorsed by the ARRL.