Are you a ham that wants to experiment with 44Net but found the setup process to be intimidating? Say no more, because we’ve got great news for you!

We’re excited to introduce 44Net Connect, a service that makes it easy for hams to begin using 44Net IPv4 addresses through a simple, modern setup. Whether you’re experimenting with digital modes, improving repeater infrastructure, setting up a home lab, or just curious to see what 44Net is all about, this new service lowers the barrier of entry to get you started.

Why 44Net Connect?

44Net Connect uses modern, secure networking technology (WireGuard) that’s already supported by many popular routers, including NETGEAR, TP-Link, and Ubiquiti, and it works across a wide range of devices, from desktop computers and phones to Raspberry Pis.

Here’s what makes 44Net Connect especially useful:

• Simple setup: No complex configurations required. Just connect and go!
• Get a static IPv4 address: Access a static 44Net IPv4 address without relying on your ISP.
• Bypass carrier-grade NAT (CGNAT) limitations: Perfect if your IPv4 support is behind CGNAT or has a short lease from your ISP.
• Experiment safely: You can experiment and learn without “breaking the Internet”– 44Net Connect has the bumpers in place for you.

All in all, 44Net Connect makes 44Net more accessible and fun, helping more people experiment with networking, amateur radio, and digital communications technologies!

How to Get Started

Getting connected is easy: all you need is a router, computer, phone, Raspberry Pi, or anything that can run a WireGuard client.

1. If you haven’t already, go to the 44Net Portal, set up an account, and then open a ticket for call sign verification.
2. Once your call sign is verified, head over to the 44Net Connect dashboard to sign up and join the registration queue.

From there, you’ll be able to explore what 44Net has to offer and see just how easy it is to get online.

A Community Effort

44Net Connect wouldn’t have been possible without the work and collaboration from Adam Lewis KC7GDY, who originated the concept; Zach Seguin VA3ZTS, an early contributor that worked closely with Adam on the project; and John Hays K7VE SK, whose subject-matter expertise and efforts were instrumental in bringing 44Net Connect to reality. Ian Redden VA3IAN, Dave Gingrich K9DC, and Dan Theisen WI7FI contributed valuable guidance, insight, testing, and support throughout the project as well.

We’d also like to thank the 2024 and 2025 Technical Advisory Committees (TAC), who helped shepherd this project from “what if” to proof of concept to being production-ready, and of course the many beta testers who provided valuable feedback along the way.

If you’d like to learn more about 44Net Connect or get involved, please reach out to Adam Lewis KC7GDY, our IT & Development Manager (adam@ardc.net) or John Burwell KI5QKX, our 44Net Program Manager (john@ardc.net).

A Nod to 44Net’s Legacy

44Net Connect debuted December 10, 2025, which is also the 45th anniversary of another pivotal moment in amateur radio, when Hank Magnuski KA6M put up the first digipeater in the United States and helped kick off the packet radio era. We are honored to mark this new service alongside a significant milestone in amateur radio and digital communications.

Join In!

44Net Connect continues the spirit of 44Net: a playground for experimentation and innovation with TCP/IP over RF. With this new service, getting started has never been easier. So fire up your router, and start exploring the possibilities!