DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION OF A SERVAL MESH NETWORK
Abstract
Reliable communication during emergencies is crucial, yet traditional systems often fail due to network congestion or infrastructure damage. This project proposes a decentralized, self-configuring wireless mesh network using Raspberry Pi to provide an alternative communication solution in disaster scenarios.
A robust server mesh network was developed with Raspberry Pi as the core server, enabling mobile devices to communicate via an Android application without internet access. The system supported multiple devices, ensured secure data transmission, and included message caching for efficient data delivery in unstable environments. The methodology involved configuring Raspberry Pi nodes over Wi-Fi, integrating VNC Viewer for remote management, and testing connectivity, message transmission, and error handling. Results confirmed stable communication, reliable data transfer, and system resilience even under node failures. This project demonstrates the feasibility of mesh networks for emergency communication, offering a scalable, fault-tolerant solution. Future enhancements could improve security, scalability, and broader disaster-response applications.
Full-Text Access Notice
In accordance with the NERD Policy on promoting peer-reviewed publication, public access to the full text of a project, thesis or dissertation is restricted for three years, allowing the author and supervisors sufficient time to pursue peer-reviewed publication.
During this period, researchers with legitimate academic or research purposes may request authorisation directly from the author to enable NERD to release the indexed full texts of the work using the form below.