Backbone Node

From Pretoria Wireless Project

Overview

A backbone node, or trunk node, forms the core of the wireless network. It connects to all the other node types, and helps to carry a large part of the network traffic. Typically, a node needs to connect at least three transit nodes in order to become a backbone node, although transit nodes between two true backbone nodes could also be seen as backbone nodes.

Typically, a backbone node needs to be a high site.

Explainantion

If the wifi network were compared to a tree, a backbone node would form part of the trunk, and even the larger branches. All other backbone nodes would also be on the trunk, with transit nodes coming out of the tree like branches.

These nodes form the crucial backbone of the network, and are the most complex to set up.

Requirements

Backbone nodes are more complex to set up than any other.

For each connection to another node, it needs a seperate Antenna and wifi device for optimal thransmission speed. To connect the various nodes, it also needs complex networking software in order to route the network traffic to the correct nodes. The routing is done by either high quality routers, or by network servers.

The signal quality and strength requirements are typically much higher for backbone nodes than for other node types. As backbone nodes carry large volumes of network traffic, a strong, clear signal is needed in order to accomodate optimal network performance.

Thus a backbone node needs a good geographical position, in order to improve signal quality. Where possible, it needs line of site to other high traffic nodes, such as other backbone nodes, and transit nodes.

The antenna's provided with typical wifi equipment are not sufficient for the signal quality required by backbone nodes, and thus most of the connections to backbone and transit nodes will require specialised antenna's, as well as a mast to mount these antenna's correctly.

Backbone nodes require the most technical expertise, and expensive network gear to set up. They also require the most maintenance due to their complex nature.

In order to join the pwp network, you will have to contact existing members of the network, to learn what the required setting are t gain access to the pwp network's facilities.

Please be advised that members of pwp are expected to abide by the policies of the pwp network.