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Yes it is possible. However, it would probably require regulatory changes. It would really suck to have your internet shutdown because someone was pirating movies on the mesh.

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Let's start with the technology, then it can be used to argue for legal changes.

I think the technology is already there to hook into a 5g network and repeat it. However, you would need to create a network "Provider" for the mesh. Then you would need to connect all the nodes. In the end you have made one more wireless company. I think the governance model for the mesh provider would be way more important than the tech itself.

However, creating the Wikipedia/Internet Archive of wireless ISPs would be pretty awesome.

Connecting the nodes through a common backbone shouldn't be necessary in a mesh network. Nodes can provide connectivity by relaying even if they don't have access to internet directly.

You still need a governance model for the mesh. IP, NAT, anti-DDOS, certificate authorities, emergency services, phone network integration, etc... Otherwise you just end up with the worlds biggest open wifi network. About as safe as a hat full of mercury fulminate.

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