AREDN is the Amateur Radio Emergency Data Network. It is made up of access points that form a self healing mesh for the transmission of high-speed data using Ethernet protocols. This creates a stable working computer network much like the Internet, but does not rely on public or commercial networks. AREDN will support Winlink, digital voice communication networks, high-speed data transfer, Videoconferencing and many other types of communication. The network runs on UHF or microwave links over line-of-sight or near line-of-sight paths. This means it complements, rather than replaces, lower-speed systems like VARA and AX.25.
The York Region Amateur Radio Club is in the early stages of planning an AREDN network in central York Region. It will initially focus on Aurora, Newmarket and Bradford, although it will be usable in many other parts of the region. Individual stations may use an inexpensive end-point device to access the network, while other sites in favourable locations will act is routing nodes to relay data between locations. The AREDN network will be useful for public service, emergency, linking of repeaters, reflectors and hotspots, and many other applications.
To get involved, contact Chris VE3NRT.