A wireless mesh network (WMN) is a communications network that consists of multiple
wirelessly connected access points (APs) in a mesh topology and connects to a wired network
through a portal node. Nodes on a WMN can automatically establish the ad-hoc topology and
maintain mesh connectivity. Additionally, these nodes can automatically establish a wireless
multi-hop network, providing a cost-effective last-mile broadband access solution.
On a traditional wireless local area network (WLAN), each wireless station (STA) connects to the WLAN through a wireless link established with an AP, forming a basic service set (BSS). Before communicating with each other, STAs must connect to a fixed AP. This network structure is called a single-hop network. STAs can communicate with only APs, and APs must connect to a wired network. This requirement confines the WLAN coverage. Currently, WLANs using a centralized topology apply only to a few scenarios, and APs must connect to a wired network through fixed lines. As a technological innovation of traditional WLAN, WMN expands the application range of WLAN from hotspots to hot areas and reduces dependence on wired networks. A WMN is a multi-hop network. The biggest difference between a WMN and a traditional single-hop network is that APs on WMN forward wireless signals while providing user access. Multiple APs build a mesh topology where signals are routed from one AP to another AP and finally transmitted through the AP connected to a fixed-line to a wired network.
WLAN deployed using mesh technology
Mesh Network Architecture
Wireless mesh networking is mainly classified into three modes:
Linear networking
In linear networking, you can preconfigure a neighbor for a node to connect to. 802.11s packets converted from 802.3 packets can be transmitted over links established between MPs and then transmitted over wireless links.
Star networking
Instar networking, all MPs depend on an MPP for data forwarding. All LAN data is transmitted through the MPP.
Mesh networking
In mesh networking, a redundant link is available when a mesh link becomes faulty. However, this networking will cause network loops. You can use mesh routing to selectively block redundant links to eliminate loops.
Typical Application Scenarios
Indoor WMN networking
In homes, warehouses, subways, and office buildings, WLAN signals attenuate when they penetrate walls or other obstacles. Coverage holes exist when there is only one MP deployed. Indoor WMN networking can solve this problem. This networking expands the wireless network coverage and saves cabling costs. shows the indoor WMN networking.
Outdoor WMN networking
In an outdoor WMN, two MPs can interconnect over dozens of kilometers. Mesh technology can implement data transmission across office buildings or areas. It overcomes the limitations of wired networks such as difficult deployment, high deployment costs, and low flexibility. Therefore, outdoor WMN networking applies to campus, plantations, mountain areas, and high buildings. TIP Outdoor obstacles include trees and high buildings. The radian of the Earth must be considered for long-distance transmission. Select and install antennas based on on-site requirements. You can refer to the HUAWEI WLAN mesh technology white paper.
