Node Network
From Pretoria Wireless Project
Contents |
Overview
In pwp terms, a node network, is a stable, organised and optimised network made up of nodes with pre-assigned roles and abilities.
Node networks can be combined with mesh networks in order to increase the reach of the network. Mesh networks use cheaper and simpler setups, and can be implimented with less expense than node networks. This makes it possible for many smaller mesh networks, to link up with other mesh networks, to form one larger network. One can also use a node network to compliment and exsiting mesh network, in order to provide high speed channels that link geographically remote points on the mesh network, much like modern high ways provide high speed connection to motor vehicles.
Explaination
Node networks consist of a number of linked nodes, with different funstions depending on their relationship to other nodes. In feact, nodes are defined by this relationship with other nodes, and therefore cannot exist with just one node.
The core of the node network is made of backbone nodes. These nodes form a static network, with antenna and router configuration that optimise transmission speeds and quality between each other. Backbone nodes can form a massive network over time. Backbone nodes are connected to a minimum of 3 other nodes.
Transit nodes are like branches leading from the core of the network. These branches are made up by a series of transit nodes, and end in a leaf node.
End users of the network are called leaf nodes. They connect to the network, but dont have any other nodes connecting to them. They are thus connected to only one node.
Growth
It is possible for a node network to grow over time. It is however necessarily to control the growth of the network, as each node needs to be porperly configured to ensure the optimal operation of the network. Mesh networks in contrast, grow and shrink at will, they are not reliable or optimised for their role, but for convienience and economy.
Each leaf node that connects, increases the number of participants in the network.
When a leaf node forms a connection to another node, it becomes a transit node. A transit node becomes a backbone node if it connects to a third node. This increses the size and reach of the network.
The braches of a transit node may split with the addtion of another node, and grow into different directions, and may even link up with other parts of the network. This provides alternate routes to traffic on the existing network, improving network performance and speed.
Nodes might even connect to other node networks, linking several of these into a singal supra-net.
The addition of more backbone nodes with improve network speed and reliablity.
Organisation
As the network grows, it becomes increasingly complex. Complex systems become more problematic the more complex they become, so in order to ensure continued usability as the network grows, sensible organisational policies are needed.
PWP is a community project, with participation being completely voluntary. The time, effort and resources contributed to the project cannot be dictated by any body. But in order to preserve the freedoms and rights of all participants, certain guidelines and polices have to be established and followed. Please see the policies page.
