The data network for radio amateurs.
HAMNET is an international IP data network dedicated exclusively to licensed radio amateurs. It works in a way that is similar to the Internet, but it is isolated, usually interconnected by 5 GHz Wi‑Fi radio links and managed by radio amateurs.
It enables services such as repeater interconnections, web servers, SDR receivers, IP PBXs, weather stations, and much more.
When joining HAMNET, visit the Monsanto site (cq0elx.hamnet.radio) to get an overview of what you can find.
Available services
- Repeater interconnection without requiring a dedicated Internet connection
- Websites describing nodes and providing services
- VoIP PBXs with voice and video, interconnected with PBXs outside Portugal
- Online directory of active HAMNET phones
- SDR receivers (including QO-100)
- Global index of interesting HAMNET websites
- Discussion forum
- Web chat
- Monitoring of Portuguese HAMNET backbone nodes and links
- Redundant connections from HAMNET Portugal to Germany, including via satellite (Starlink)
- UPS systems and generators at key sites
- and more.
The Network
How HAMNET works
The HAMNET backbone consists of sites (also known as nodes or cells) interconnected through 5 GHz Wi‑Fi radio links.
Wi‑Fi technology and the 5 GHz band are used because relatively low‑cost commercial equipment is widely available, and because this band typically provides higher bandwidth and longer link distances.
Each site is assigned IP addresses starting with 44 (from the 44.128.0.0/10 range) for network devices, services (websites, repeaters, etc.) and local user access points (APs).
An Autonomous System (BGP) is also assigned to each site to enable routing within HAMNET. Sites are registered on hamnetdb.net and shown on a map.
Backbone equipment
In terms of equipment, each node typically includes a router with PoE capability (often a MikroTik RB750UPR2), to which one or more antennas/links are connected to interconnect with other cells.
The antenna and radio equipment depend on the distance between the sites to be linked over RF.
The router also connects to devices (in many cases a Raspberry Pi) that provide applications and services on the network, such as web servers, repeater services and more.
Optionally, a node may also include a 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz Wi‑Fi access point (omnidirectional or sector) so that nearby radio amateurs can access HAMNET locally without using the Internet (via VPN). An example of this type of equipment is the RBMetalG-52SHP.
Approximate equipment cost
The approximate cost of the equipment typically used at each node is as follows:
- Router Mikrotik RB750UPR2 - 54€ (novo)
- Antena Mikrotik QRT5 - desde 40€ + portes (usado, no eBay)
- Raspberry Pi 4 8GB — €100 (new, with accessories)
Portuguese HAMNET backbone map
Access
1) Via Wi‑Fi Access Point
You can access HAMNET via Wi‑Fi if you are close to a HAMNET access point (AP).
At the moment there are APs at several points in the network, for example in Lisbon (Monsanto), Monte da Caparica, Palmela, Belas, Seixal and Alcabideche.
Monsanto uses 5 GHz Wi‑Fi; the other sites use 2.4 GHz.
The details required to access these APs can be requested in the HAMNET Portugal Telegram channel.
2) Via VPN
You can also access HAMNET through the Internet using a VPN. To obtain access credentials, you need to request a LoTW certificate to prove you are a licensed radio amateur.
This process consists of three steps. Use the buttons below for instructions.
REP members benefit from a simpler and faster access method. Watch this video.
3) Via RF
It is also possible to access HAMNET in Lisbon via the 70 cm band.
To do so, you must be within RF coverage of the HAMNET 70 cm gateway. Contact the HAMNET Portugal Telegram group to obtain access parameters.
Need help?
Join the HAMNET Portugal Telegram channel and ask your questions.
News
More resilient network
In addition to the existing connection to the German HAMNET network via Starlink and the 4G backup at site CT7AFY, a new permanent link has now been added at site CS7AZA.
It is also important to highlight that the CS7AZA site is equipped with a generator, ensuring service continuity even during power outages.
Simplified HAMNET access for REP members
REP members who are radio amateurs can now create/renew HAMNET access credentials directly through the Association’s HAMNET portal.
This removes the need for the more complex and time‑consuming LoTW certificate workflow for these users.
HAMNET Portugal YouTube channel
The HAMNET Portugal YouTube channel was recently launched, dedicated to promoting the HAMNET network in Portugal.
Its goal is to introduce this high‑speed IP data network for radio amateurs, explaining how it works, which services are available and how to participate.
Monitor the HAMNET Portugal backbone on your mobile phone.
An application has been made available that allows you to monitor the status of the HAMNET backbone nodes in Portugal, presenting the information in a clear, organized and easy-to-use way.
This application works on iPhone, iPad and Android mobile devices.
Documentation
FAQ
I am a radio amateur or represent a radio amateur association. What do I need to do to create a site on HAMNET?
Use the email info@hamnet.pt to clarify any questions about this topic.
What name can be used for a HAMNET site?
Because this is a radio amateur network, a HAMNET site name should be a station callsign. It can be the callsign of a repeater, a shared/common-use station, a special callsign assigned by ANACOM (when applicable), or an individual radio amateur’s callsign.
Does HAMNET have Internet access?
HAMNET has Internet connectivity so that equipment installed at sites can communicate with systems outside the HAMNET network. Do not confuse this with clicking Internet links published on HAMNET websites: when you click those links, your own Internet access is used.
Is it possible to publish HAMNET IP addresses on the public Internet?
It is not allowed to publish HAMNET addresses (44.128.0.0/10) on the public Internet. Remember that HAMNET was designed to be accessed only by licensed radio amateurs.
How can I check if there is line of sight to connect a new site to the backbone via an RF link?
A line-of-sight verification guide is available at the following link: https://img1.wsimg.com/blobby/go/e1de0723-295d-47c4-8308-2726b9bdccc3/downloads/Verificacao%20linha%20de%20vista%20V1.0.pdf?ver=1701961787021
Which IP address ranges are used in Portugal?
At the moment, HAMNET Portugal uses the IP range 44.146.0.0/17 for services and user access, and 44.146.192.0/18 for backbone links. This range is not dedicated exclusively to Portugal and may be shared with other HAMNET networks.
I'd like to learn more about HAMNET from a technical perspective (e.g., configuring network equipment). Can I do that?
There is a lot of technical information about HAMNET in the Portugal HAMNET Wiki. You can consult it at web2.ct7afy.hamnet.radio/HamNet.
For additional questions, join the HAMNET Portugal Telegram channel.
I have a question that isn't answered here. Where can I get help?
You can ask your questions in the HAMNET Portugal Telegram channel.
Contact
Coordination / Support
Email: info.hamnet.pt
Telegram: HAMNET Portugal
Youtube: HAMNETPortugal
Contribute
Want to help HAMNET grow in Portugal? Do you have a location that would make sense as part of the backbone?
Contact us via email or the Telegram group.