585915

rochester-area community networking • mesh radio • decentralized communication

585915 is a local community project for residents of Rochester, New York and Monroe County. The name reflects both geography and technology: 585 for the local area code, and 915 for the 915 MHz LoRa and mesh radio spectrum.

The goal is simple: help neighbors find one another, communicate directly, and build resilient local connections that do not depend on centralized platforms, surveillance-driven networks, or fragile infrastructure.

Strong local communities matter. Mutual aid, rapid communication, and trusted relationships help keep people informed and connected. 585915 exists to support those connections quietly, locally, and openly.

This project focuses on decentralized communication: mesh radio, self-hosted platforms, and federated networks that let people communicate securely and independently without unnecessary oversight from governments or large communications corporations.

Matrix

We use Matrix for real-time community chat. It is an open protocol, not a single company, works across many apps, and supports encrypted direct messages. Our Matrix server is a Conduit instance hosted on hardware we own and operate in Rochester, New York.

If you are new to Matrix, try Element, FluffyChat, or Cinny. Clients are available on all major platforms.

Fediverse

The Fediverse is a network of independently run social platforms that can communicate with one another. Communities host their own servers, keep their own data, and still interact across the wider ecosystem.

Rochester-area mesh communications: 585915.org

Related External Communities

These are independent community-run servers and networks with similar goals. 585915 does not operate or moderate these spaces.

About the Project

585915 is a project of MakeArmy, a locally operated initiative that hosts a range of federated and self-hosted services on hardware physically located in the Rochester area.

Visit MakeArmy to learn more about the broader project and the services supporting the community.

Support the Project

Infrastructure for 585915 and MakeArmy is currently funded by a very small local business. If you find these services useful, support helps keep them online and growing.