Community Networks

Overview

The following is a list of community-owned and operated internet networks around the world that reflect the principles and structure of Vegas Open Network (VONet). These networks are built and maintained by the people they serve, often using mesh or hybrid wireless infrastructure, with a focus on digital equity, resilience, and decentralization.

Each project aligns with the Network Commons License and demonstrates that reliable connectivity can be provided as a public good, not a commercial service.

Global and U.S. Community Network Examples

NYC Mesh (New York City, NY)

• Website: nycmesh.net
• Description: A volunteer-run community internet network with over 2,000 active nodes. Offers free or pay-what-you-can service using open-source tools.
• Mission: Provide affordable, community-owned internet access with no contracts or hidden fees.
• Model: Rooftop antennas, member nodes, and shared internet gateways. Built on Network Commons principles.

Guifi.net (Catalonia, Spain)

• Website: guifi.net
• Description: One of the largest community networks worldwide, with 37,000+ active nodes and 70,000 km of wireless/fiber links.
• Mission: Build a commons-based telecom infrastructure.
• Model: Community-developed and governed network with infrastructure shared among users, businesses, and institutions.

Freifunk (Germany)

• Website: freifunk.net
• Description: A decentralized wireless network with 400+ local groups and over 50,000 access points across Germany.
• Mission: Free infrastructure through grassroots organizing and open technology.
• Model: Volunteer-run, built with open-source firmware and a focus on democratic participation.

People’s Open Network (Oakland, CA)

• Website: peoplesopen.net
• Description: A project focused on building equitable community internet in underserved Oakland neighborhoods.
• Mission: Promote digital justice, local ownership, and decentralized infrastructure.
• Model: Rooftop mesh nodes and public workshops led by the group SudoMesh.

MOMESH (Missouri)

• Website: momesh.org
• Description: A grassroots wireless network connecting neighbors in urban and rural Missouri.
• Mission: Provide DIY, low-cost connectivity using open-source tools.
• Model: Volunteer-based deployment of affordable networking hardware.

Tucson Mesh (Tucson, AZ)

• Website: tucsonmesh.net
• Description: A community-operated wireless network in Arizona that emphasizes preparedness, education, and accessibility.
• Mission: Build a resilient internet backbone owned and governed by the people.
• Model: Focus on disaster readiness and education for local volunteers.

Seattle Community Network (Seattle, WA)

• Website: seattlecommunitynetwork.org
• Description: A citywide mesh network project offering public access and digital equity programs.
• Mission: Empower communities to create and control their own internet infrastructure.
• Model: High-performance wireless nodes combined with education and training for residents.

Shared Principles

These networks generally operate under a shared philosophy:

• No contracts, monthly fees, or corporate control
• Operated by volunteers and governed by participants
• Funded by donations, grants, or in-kind support
• Transparent, open-source, and replicable
• Focused on underserved communities and digital equity

See Also

• Network Commons License

External Resources

• Association for Progressive Communications
• Meet Freifunk – Shareable
• Urban Omnibus – Mesh Together (NYC Mesh feature)