Empowering Communities Through Open Mesh Networking
OrangeMesh, founded in 2006, is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing broadband internet access to disadvantaged communities. Under the leadership of Chairman Brian Russell, we aim to make network management accessible to semi-technical users and reduce maintenance costs by empowering local communities to solve their own connectivity challenges. Our solution leverages mesh networking technology, creating an easy-to-set-up system that fosters collaboration and sustainability. Join us in bridging the digital divide and enhancing community connectivity with our innovative OrangeMesh platform.
Empowering Communities Through Open Mesh Networking
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Presentation Transcript
OrangeMesh Dashboard ShaddiHasan Mac MollsionWill Vogler
Our Client: Orange Networking Advocacy Education Wireless Support Local non-profit, founded in 2006 Chairman, Brian Russell
Motivation Provide Broadband Internet access to disadvantaged communities Make network management accessible to semi-technical users Reduce maintenance costs by empowering the community to solve its own problems Create an easy-to-setup system SOLUTION: Mesh Networking
What’s in a Mesh? • Nodes, lots of them • Nodes create a “mesh cloud” • Gateways connect to internet and repeaters • Repeaters connect to other repeaters and gateways
In the Beginning, there was Roofnet • MIT begat Roofnet • Roofnet begat Meraki • Meraki Goes Corporate • 300% price increases • Draconian hardware restrictions • “Happy Hacking” no more :(
An Open Mesh • Protocol: B.A.T.M.A.N. • Firmware: RO.B.IN • Hardware: Accton MR3201A • Dashboard: Open-Mesh • Community Dasboard: OrangeMesh
Open-Mesh + OrangeMesh • Optimal Solution • No competition • Better Community Features • Access to pre-flashed nodes • Project Longevity • Client Request OrangeMesh Open-Mesh
Network Architecture • Network Status Information per node • Uptime • Bandwidth used • Users connected Mesh Cloud • Configuration Files to each node • ESSID • Bandwidth caps • Splash screen
Dashboard Architecture Remote DB Web GUI Network Status Network Configuration Node Information Migration MySQL: “nodes” “accounts”
Demo 2: Network Migration Migrate!
Where from here? • Node Configuration Scripts • Temporary pending release of Open Mesh • Updated User Documentation • Integrate into dashboard • Educational documentation • Node Owner Information System • Link contact information to nodes • Pending nodes interface • Simplified Install Process • Automate setup of core components (DB, unpacking scripts) • “Ubuntu Beginner” level step-by-step guides