How to Use the Meshtastic App — Getting Started

Guide — 5 min read — DOSnet Learning Hub

How to Use the Meshtastic App — Getting Started on iOS and Android

The Meshtastic app is how you communicate with your DOSnet nodes — sending and receiving messages, seeing GPS positions, and configuring your network. This guide walks you through the basics from first launch to first message.

Download and install

The Meshtastic app is free on both platforms:

  • iOS: Search "Meshtastic" in the App Store or visit meshtastic.org
  • Android: Search "Meshtastic" in Google Play or visit meshtastic.org

The app is open source and developed by the global Meshtastic community. It receives regular updates with new features and reliability improvements.

Connecting to your DOSnet node

  1. Power on your DOSnet node. The power button location varies by hardware model — refer to the quick-start card that came with your pack.
  2. Enable Bluetooth on your phone and open the Meshtastic app.
  3. Tap the Bluetooth icon or "Connect" in the app. It will scan for nearby Meshtastic devices.
  4. Select your node from the list. The device name will usually include the last few digits of its MAC address — the same number shown on the sticker on your DOSnet node.
  5. Enter the pairing PIN if prompted. Most DOSnet nodes use PIN 123456 by default.

Once connected, the app will sync with your node and show the main channels screen. You're on the mesh.

Sending your first message

Tap the channel name (usually "Primary" by default) to open the message view. Type a message and tap send. If another node is within range, they'll receive it — and you'll see delivery confirmation in the app.

Sharing your GPS location

Go to Settings → Position and enable location sharing. Set your update interval — every 30 seconds is good for moving users, every 5 minutes is fine for static deployments. Your position will now broadcast to everyone on the mesh automatically, and you'll see other members' positions on the map view.

Key settings to know

  • Channel name and PSK: Everyone on your network needs the same channel name and Pre-Shared Key. DOSnet nodes come pre-configured with default settings. If you want a private network, change the PSK to a unique value in the app and share it with your group.
  • Node info: Set your name and short name in Settings → User so other mesh members can identify you on the map.
  • Power settings: If battery life is a priority, adjust the transmit power and sleep settings in the app to extend runtime.

Getting help

The Meshtastic documentation at meshtastic.org is comprehensive and regularly updated. The global Meshtastic community on Discord is active and helpful. And for DOSnet-specific questions, our support team in Brisbane is available via email — contact us here.

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