MDU

Multi-dwelling units (MDUs) — apartments, condos, duplexes, or clustered homes — are ideal locations for expanding the VONet network. A single installation can connect dozens of people, close coverage gaps, and offer reliable, community-owned internet to residents who might otherwise go without.

This page is for:

• Residents who want to bring VONet to their building
• HOA boards and property managers exploring options
• Volunteers planning small-to-large installs

All installs follow the Network Commons License, which ensures the network remains free, open, and community-run.

Why MDUs Matter

• One install can serve many residents
• Lower per-user cost than single-family installs
• Strengthens mesh coverage in dense areas
• Directly supports digital equity in Las Vegas

Hosting an MDU node builds real community infrastructure. It’s not just a signal—it’s a shared public resource.

For Property Owners and HOAs

If you manage or represent an MDU, you can help bring internet access to your residents with no ongoing cost. VONet is not a commercial ISP—it’s a nonprofit building open, community-owned infrastructure in areas where traditional access is limited.

What VONet provides

• Site planning and install support
• Donated or community-funded equipment (when available)
• Volunteer assistance and follow-up

What we ask

• Safe access to rooftop or telecom space
• Permission to mount equipment and run low-voltage cables
• A small amount of power (like an outlet or PoE injector)

There are no contracts, no fees, and no vendor lock-in. Residents can disconnect anytime and keep any equipment they provided.

If you're open to learning more, email support@vonet.org.

Planning an MDU Node

Every building is different. Start with:

• A basic floor plan or layout
• Access details for roof or wiring closets
• Power availability near install points
• Number of units you want to connect

A VONet volunteer can help assess and design the right approach.

Deployment Types

1. Rooftop Wireless + Indoor Distribution

• Antenna on the roof links to the VONet mesh
• Ethernet drops to a central switch or router
• Indoor Wi-Fi or wired distribution to each unit

Best for buildings with rooftop access and minimal existing cabling.

2. Fiber-to-the-Unit (FTTU)

• OLT (optical line terminal) or splitter in utility area
• Fiber to each unit or floor
• ONT (fiber modem) + router per unit

Ideal for new or retrofitted MDUs with fiber conduits or patch panels.

3. DSL Over Existing Phone Lines

• VDSL2 or G.fast DSLAM installed in a wiring closet
• Signal carried over unused phone lines to each unit
• Modem + router placed inside each apartment

Works well for older MDUs with legacy copper infrastructure.

4. Common-Area Wi-Fi

• Mesh access points in hallways or courtyards
• Shared Wi-Fi coverage across multiple units
• Minimal wiring, fast to deploy

Best for small buildings, triplexes, or temporary setups.

Equipment Overview

Rooftop and Backhaul

• MikroTik LHG 5 / XL 5
• Ubiquiti LiteBeam 5AC, NanoStation M5
• Shielded Cat5e/Cat6 cable, mounts, PoE injectors

Indoor Distribution

• MikroTik hAP ac² or hAP ax²
• TP-Link EAP245 or Unifi U6-Lite
• RB750Gr3 (hEX) or small PoE switches

Fiber Equipment

• UFiber OLT or MikroTik XGS-PON
• UFiber Nano G or Nokia G-240G-A ONTs
• Fiber splitters, patch panels, trays

DSL Setup

• Zyxel IES DSLAM or G.fast alternatives
• In-unit VDSL2 modems and routers
• Uses inactive copper phone lines

Installation Process

1. Confirm access and permission
2. Choose the right setup for the building
3. Mount rooftop or gateway equipment
4. Run cabling to each floor or unit
5. Place routers or Wi-Fi access points
6. Test signal and document performance
7. Notify the VONet team to help monitor and support

Safety, Ownership, and Opt-Out

All equipment uses low-voltage power and safe cabling. Rooftop work follows safety protocols, and volunteers are covered by insurance.

There are no contracts. If the building no longer wants to participate, the node can be removed. Equipment you provide stays yours.

Want to Host an MDU Node?

Reach out at support@vonet.org. We can:

• Help you assess your building
• Provide equipment (when available)
• Assist with planning and install
• Coordinate with your tenants or HOA

Every MDU node helps bring equitable, community-owned internet to Las Vegas—one building at a time.

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This page will be updated as new installs happen. If you’ve hosted or helped with a node, share your experience to help the next person.