Node Roles Explained

Meshtastic node roles control how your device behaves on the radio network. Choosing the wrong role is the fastest way to create congestion, duplicate traffic, and unreliable messaging.

---

The Default Rule

If you are not sure, use Client. Most nodes should be clients.

Clients relay. This is the single most misunderstood thing about Meshtastic roles: a node on the default CLIENT role already rebroadcasts other people's traffic, so it is already helping the mesh. You do not need a router role to contribute. The roles that stop relaying are CLIENT_MUTE and CLIENT_HIDDEN.

Two roles you may have read about elsewhere are gone: ROUTER_CLIENT was retired in current firmware (its behavior is what CLIENT does now), and ROUTER_LATE exists only for specialized infrastructure. If a guide tells you to set ROUTER_CLIENT, it predates Meshtastic 2.5.

Caution:

Do not set a node to Router or Repeater just because it has a good antenna. Elevation and coverage matter, but too many routing nodes can make the mesh worse.

Client

Use Client for most nodes. Clients participate in the mesh, exchange messages, relay traffic for other nodes, and generally keep the network stable. This is the best role for handhelds, cars, homes, and many rooftop nodes, including most solar nodes.

• Best for: handheld, mobile, home, basic rooftop
• Power: best overall
• Network impact: low

Client Mute

Use Client Mute for receive only nodes. This is useful for passive monitoring or nodes that should not transmit except for minimal network behavior.

• Best for: passive listeners, quiet monitoring
• Power: good
• Network impact: very low

Router

Use Router only for true infrastructure sites. Routers are intended for high locations with wide coverage and stable power. A router should run 24/7 with a reliable antenna install.

• Best for: towers, tall rooftops, hilltops with clear line of sight
• Power: should be always on
• Network impact: high, use sparingly

Repeater

Use Repeater only when you need simple coverage extension. Repeaters are also infrastructure nodes and should be placed high with stable power. Use them sparingly.

• Best for: extending coverage into a dead zone when placed high
• Power: should be always on
• Network impact: high, use sparingly

Role Selection Quick Guide

• If it moves, use Client
• If it is indoors, use Client
• If it is solar powered, use Client (and see Power & Sleep Settings: a relaying solar node should not sleep)
• If it is a high permanent site with stable power, consider Router or Repeater
• If you are unsure, use Client