Orne Brocaar, founder and lead developer of ChirpStack, talks about building one of the most widely used open-source LoRaWAN network servers in the world. With over two million downloads across major versions, ChirpStack has become a foundational tool for developers, businesses, and governments deploying LoRaWAN infrastructure.

In this episode, Orne explains how ChirpStack grew from a side project in 2015 to a globally adopted platform, with early support from CableLabs and SIDN. He outlines the biggest technical challenges users face, especially around configuring gateways, Linux environments, and network firewalls—core steps that can make or break a LoRaWAN deployment.

The conversation dives into the practical business model behind open-source software in IoT, where ChirpStack generates sustainable revenue through consultancy, contracted development, and community sponsorships. Orne shares how this structure allows him to support enterprise users while continuing to improve the platform for everyone.

A highlight of the discussion is ChirpStack’s new gateway mesh feature, developed in collaboration with RAK Wireless and Smart Parks. These solar-powered relay gateways operate without direct internet connections and enable coverage in remote or rugged environments. Orne describes how the new mesh framework supports remote configuration and monitoring over LoRaWAN’s proprietary message types—providing valuable tools for managing decentralized infrastructure.

Other topics include advice for first-time users, the role of ChirpStack in the broader LoRaWAN ecosystem, and what’s next for the project.

• Common setup pain points and how to solve them
• Making open-source business models work in IoT
• The role of CableLabs and SIDN in scaling ChirpStack
• LoRaWAN deployment in rural and off-grid areas
• Gateway mesh architecture for extended coverage
• Using LoRaWAN to send commands to gateways
• Why ChirpStack continues to grow in adoption

Guest links:

Orne Brocaar on LinkedIn

Chirpstack

• Helium Global IoT Coverage - Want to know if Helium coverage exists where you need it? Check out this map!
• Helium Foundation - The Helium Foundation's IoT Working Group (IOTWG) has generously provided support for the first 6 months of shows, please go check them out and consider using the Helium LoRaWAN as a primary or backup on your next deployment. With over a quarter million gateways deployed worldwide, it's likely that you have and can use Helium coverage.
• Support The Show - If you'd like to support the MetSci Show financially, here's where you can donate on a one-time or an ongoing basis. Thank you!
• MetSci Show - If you'd like to use our IoT or AI Data Value calculators, or you'd like to contact me, the MetSci Show site is the best way to do it.
• MeteoScientific Console - Use LoRaWAN - The MeteoScientific Console allows you to use LoRaWAN today. As long as you have Helium coverage (and you probably do, about 90% of populated areas in the world have a gateway within 2 miles), you can onboard a sensor. You can always check coverage at https://explorer.helium.com and switch to the "IoT" tab in the top right.