Wireless mesh networks: a survey
Computer Networks, 47 (4):
445--487 (March 2005)DOI: 10.1016/j.comnet.2004.12.001
Abstract
Wireless mesh networks (WMNs) consist of mesh routers and mesh clients,
where mesh routers have minimal mobility and form the backbone of
WMNs. They provide network access for both mesh and conventional
clients. The integration of WMNs with other networks such as the
Internet, cellular, IEEE 802.11, IEEE 802.15, IEEE 802.16, sensor
networks, etc., can be accomplished through the gateway and bridging
functions in the mesh routers. Mesh clients can be either stationary
or mobile, and can form a client mesh network among themselves and
with mesh routers. WMNs are anticipated to resolve the limitations
and to significantly improve the performance of ad hoc networks,
wireless local area networks (WLANs), wireless personal area networks
(WPANs), and wireless metropolitan area networks (WMANs). They are
undergoing rapid progress and inspiring numerous deployments. WMNs
will deliver wireless services for a large variety of applications
in personal, local, campus, and metropolitan areas. Despite recent
advances in wireless mesh networking, many research challenges remain
in all protocol layers. This paper presents a detailed study on recent
advances and open research issues in WMNs. System architectures and
applications of WMNs are described, followed by discussing the critical
factors influencing protocol design. Theoretical network capacity
and the state-of-the-art protocols for WMNs are explored with an
objective to point out a number of open research issues. Finally,
testbeds, industrial practice, and current standard activities related
to WMNs are highlighted.
