The impact of network topology on the performance of multi-channel single-radio mesh networks

Abstract

This paper addresses a 802.11 mesh network used to extend Internet access, where mesh nodes simultaneously serve as access points to unmodified clients. The use of multiple channels improves the performance of these networks but significant challenges arise when nodes are limited to a single-radio interface to form the mesh network. In particular, the assignment of mesh nodes to channels results on the creation of multiple sub-networks, one per channel. This paper identifies the relevant topological characteristics of subnetworks resultant from the channel assignment and studies, through simulation, the impact and relative importance of those characteristics on the maximal throughput enabled by the mesh network.