WiFimesh

WiFimesh is a wireless mesh networking concept that extends the reach of Wi‑Fi networks by interconnecting multiple nodes to form a self-organizing, multi‑hop network. In a WiFimesh deployment, each node can function as an access point, a relay, or both, allowing devices to reach a gateway or other devices without requiring a direct connection to a central router.

Most WiFimesh implementations rely on established mesh networking standards and protocols. The IEEE 802.11s standard provides a framework for mesh topology and neighbor discovery, while common open-source and commercial solutions implement supplementary routing protocols such as BATMAN-adv, OLSR, or Babel to compute paths through the mesh. Nodes typically operate in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, and may support modern Wi‑Fi generations depending on hardware constraints.

Topologies are usually partially overlapping cells; there is a gateway node connected to the Internet; other nodes forward traffic toward the gateway. The network self-organizes, performing automatic channel selection, routing, and mesh formation. Management tasks may occur on a dedicated control plane, with configuration via a central controller or distributed management.

Security relies on standard Wi‑Fi protections (WPA2/WPA3) for link encryption and often includes mesh-specific authentication for joining nodes. Performance degrades with hop count and shared medium contention; network design emphasizes channel planning and quality links to minimize latency.

WiFimesh is used for community broadband, rural connectivity, campuses, events, and disaster response where wired backhaul is impractical. Limitations include increased latency, potential interference, and the need for careful deployment and ongoing management. The term WiFimesh is sometimes used interchangeably with 802.11s-based mesh implementations, though real deployments frequently blend vendor-specific features with open standards.