How can you optimize mesh networks?

1 Choose the right mesh protocol

The first step to optimize a mesh network is to choose the most suitable mesh protocol for your application and environment. A mesh protocol is a set of rules and algorithms that define how devices join, leave, and communicate within a mesh network. There are different types of mesh protocols, such as proactive, reactive, and hybrid, that have different trade-offs between overhead, latency, and robustness. For example, proactive protocols maintain a constant view of the network topology, which reduces latency but increases overhead, while reactive protocols discover routes on demand, which reduces overhead but increases latency. You should compare the features and requirements of different mesh protocols and select the one that matches your needs.

2 Optimize the network topology

The second step to optimize a mesh network is to optimize the network topology, which is the arrangement and connection of devices within the network. A good network topology should balance the trade-offs between coverage, capacity, and redundancy. For example, you should avoid creating too many hops between devices, as this can increase latency and packet loss, but you should also avoid creating too many direct connections, as this can increase interference and power consumption. You should also consider the physical layout and obstacles of your environment, such as walls, buildings, and trees, and position your devices accordingly to ensure optimal signal strength and quality.

3 Configure the network parameters

The third step to optimize a mesh network is to configure the network parameters. These settings and values control the behavior and performance of the network. You can adjust parameters such as the channel, which should be chosen for its lack of interference and noise from other sources. Additionally, you should select a power level that is sufficient to reach the destination without causing interference or wasting battery life. The rate should also be compatible with the capabilities and conditions of the devices and the network. Lastly, you should choose a security level that meets privacy and compliance standards while not being too complex or heavy to affect performance or usability.

4 Monitor and troubleshoot the network

The fourth step to optimize a mesh network is to monitor and troubleshoot the network, which involves collecting and analyzing data and feedback from the network and identifying and resolving any issues or problems that may arise. To do this, you can use a dashboard to visualize and manage your network, detect and diagnose any anomalies or faults, trace and audit your network with a logger, and benchmark and optimize your network with a tester. The dashboard can display the status and performance of the network, such as the topology, traffic, latency, errors, and alerts. The logger can record and store events and messages that occur within the network, such as join, leave, send, receive, and error operations. The tester can simulate and evaluate the behavior and performance of the network, such as throughput, delay, jitter, and packet loss. This will help you debug and fix any errors or bugs as well as verify and validate any changes or improvements.

5 Update and maintain the network

The fifth step to optimize a mesh network is to update and maintain the network, which involves applying and implementing new features, functions, or fixes to the network and the devices. Doing so can help enhance the security, stability, and functionality of the network and the devices, while also addressing any issues or problems that may emerge over time. To ensure successful updates and maintenance activities, it's best to plan and schedule them in advance, informing and coordinating with users and stakeholders. Additionally, you should backup and restore your network and device configurations before and after your activities. If any errors or failures occur, you should rollback and revert your updates. Lastly, monitor and evaluate your updates and maintenance activities to ensure their effectiveness and efficiency.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?