Leaf Node
From Pretoria Wireless Project
Overview
A leaf node, or end node, is an end point of the wifi network. It connects to a transit node or a backbone node, but does not connect any other node to the network.
A leaf node may also be part of a mesh network.
Explainantion
If the wifi network were compared to a tree, a leaf node would be just like a leaf on a tree. It has no branches or leaves of it's own. In essence, it's on the 'edge' of the network ( in topology only, not geographically ), data flows to and from the leaf node through the nodes it's connected to, either transit nodes or backbone nodes.
This is the most basic node, and the easiest way to connect to the network.
As soon as another node connects to a leaf node, it becomes a transit node.
Requirements
The setup requirements to join the pwp network as a leaf node are considerable less complicated than jsetting up the more advanced nodes.
The wireless hardware required to connect easily available, and relatively simply to set up. Many modern Notebook PC's come with wifi capabilities. PCMCIA wifi cards are also available for those without built in wifi. For Desktop computers, a PCI card with a small antenna can be installed.
If available, a commercial access point (AP) can also be used.
Firstly, one must determine if a usable radio signal is available from an existing pwp node. For more about signal quility, see the radio basics page.
In order to connect to a wifi network, one must configure the software to enable a wifi connection to the wifi network. This is similiar to plugging a network cable into a PC. This enables communication on the radio level, but does not necessariliy guarantee that you will have access to any of the services or facilities on the network.
In order to join the pwp network, you will have to contact excisting 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.
