That's the Thing Where We Are Heading Too
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the Darkwire Project: The open-source initiative uses a radio mesh network to enable bitcoin transmission even in places that are blocked or disconnected.
The developer, who goes by the moniker "cyber," discussed the specifics of Darkwire, an open-source project that might open up new applications for Bitcoin transactions without internet connection, in an interview with Decrypt.
The concept, which was showcased at the Bitcoin 2025 Official Hackathon, uses Long Range Radio (LoRa) technology to build a decentralized mesh network that enables the sending of Bitcoin transactions even when regular connectivity is completely unavailable.
Darkwire was created especially for use in scenarios where traditional communication infrastructure is either controlled or unavailable. Cyber claims that the method is perfect for politically sensitive areas where internet connection may be restricted or closely watched, such as the Rafah Crossing or the Indo-Tibetan border.
"Darkwire is for people who want privacy or who want to avoid having their transactions and communications monitored." Think of it as Tor, except for this particular use case," the developer said.
Technology:
Darkwire uses a variety of technologies to function. The technique creates a decentralized mesh network using microcontrollers like the Arduino UNO and long-range LoRa radios.
A local graphical interface run by bitcoinlib allows users to enter the recipient's address and the amount when sending a Bitcoin transaction without internet connectivity. A signed Bitcoin transaction in hexadecimal format is then produced by the system, divided into smaller packets, and sent over the radio.
Mesh Network Technology:
Darkwire’s mesh network allows the data to “hop” from node to node until it reaches an internet-connected exit point. In ideal conditions, each Darkwire node has a range of up to 10 kilometers with a direct line of sight, reduced to 3-5 kilometers in densely populated areas.
According to cyber, "for the transaction to be pushed to the blockchain for miners to verify, at least one node in the network needs to be connected to the internet."
The transaction data serves as an exit point once it reaches a node with internet access, broadcasting the validated Bitcoin transaction to the global network so that it can be added to a block.
Restrictions and upcoming advancements
The team is currently working to resolve a number of technical issues that Darkwire is currently facing. Challenges include LoRa radios' very small bandwidth and their susceptibility to obstructions in the landscape. Furthermore, the system's reliance on exit nodes with internet access may result in possible weak points.
The idea is reportedly still in its hackathon stage, but cyber intends to advance it, making it "the industry standard" for LoRa-based communications and a fully open-source platform.