Setting up your first mesh
One device hosts, the others join. It takes about a minute.
MeshRoute connects nearby Apple devices to each other directly. There is no router and no internet involved. One device hosts the network, and the others join it.
You need MeshRoute open on every device that takes part. Keep Wi-Fi switched on, even if you are not connected to any network.
Step 1: Pick the host
Choose one device to be the host. This is the device that creates the network. Any Mac, iPhone or iPad can do it.
On that device, choose Host at the top, then tap the round button on the left. The device is now live and waiting.
Leave MeshRoute open while others connect.
Step 2: Join from the other devices
On each of the other devices, choose Scan at the top, then tap the round button on the left.
The host will appear in the list after a few seconds. Tap its name to join.
Step 3: You are connected
Once joined, each device gets its own address on the mesh. The host is always 10.9.9.1. The first device that joins is 10.9.9.2, the next is 10.9.9.3, and so on.
You can see your own address in the app under Interface IP.
That is it. Your devices can now reach each other. See Using your mesh for what to do next.
On a Mac
MeshRoute lives in your menu bar. Click the icon to open the panel and start or join a mesh from there.
To open the full window, click the menu bar icon and choose Open MeshRoute.
Want the tour again?
Open Settings in MeshRoute and choose Show Guided Tour. It points out the Host and Scan buttons again.