SEMINAR REPORT

ON

WIRELESS MESH NETWORKS

By

RICHARD ABUBAKAR
NDCS/022/2584

BEING SEMINAR REPORT SUBMITTED TO THE

DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE, NIGER STATE
POLYTECHNIC ZUNGERU IN PARTLAL FULFILMENT FOR
THE REQUIREMENT FOR THE AWARD OF NATIONAL
DIPLOMA IN COMPUTER SCIENCE.

AUGUST 2024

CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that this seminar report was carried out by RICHARD

ABUBAKAR, with the Matriculation Number NDCS/022/2584as having

satisfactorily completed the requirement for the award of National Diploma

in computer Science Department of Niger state Polytechnic, Zungeru.

…………………………. ………………..
Abubakar Yusuf Date
(Seminar Coordinator)

…………………………. ………………..
Usman Ubandawaki Date
(Head of Department)

…………………………. ………………..
(External Supervisor) Date

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
First and foremost, I am grateful to Almighty God for his mercy and

guidance in enabling me to reach this stage in my educational career.

Secondly I say a very big thanks to my co-ordinator in person of Mal.

Abubakar Yusuf and other lecturers in the department of Computer Science,

Engr. Isah Adamu Dagah, Madam Aishatu Aliyu Muhammed, Dr. Ahmad

Isah Baba, and all the rest of the lecturers in the department for their efforts

towards my academic pursuit.

Thirdly, it is my pleasure to show appreciation to my beloved parents, my

siblings; my friends and all those that contributed to the success of this

Seminar Financially, morally and so on.

Thank You.

PAGE INDEX

Title Page………………………………………………………..…….…. 1
Certificate……………………………………………….…..…………… 2

Acknowledgement………………………………………..……………..…3

Page Index……………………………………………….…….………...…4

Table Index………………………………………………….….…….........5

Figure Index……………………………………………..…………………6

Abstract……………………………………….………….…………..........7

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

1.0 Introduction…………………………………….………………...........8

1.1 What is the Problem?............................................................................9

1.2 Why is it Important to Solve the Problem?......................................... 9

1.3 Clarify Terminology…………………………………….…………….10

CHAPTER TWO: MAIN TEXT

2.0 Problem Description and Specification…………………..…………..11

2.1 Network Architecture………………………………….……………...12

2.2 Key Features……………………………………………….………….13

2.3 Routing Algorithms…………………………………………..............14

2.3.1 Ad-Hoc On-Demand Distance Vector (AODV) Routing………….14

2.3.2 Optimized Link State Routing (OLSR)……………………………..15

2.4 Visual Aids……………………………………………………...........16

2.5 Data Collection and Analysis…………………………..………........17

2.6 Discussion……………………………………………..……………..18

CHAPTER THREE: CONCLUSION

3.0 Conclusion………………………………..……………...…………...19

3.1 Problems and Enhancements…………..………………...…………..20

References…………………………….……………………....……........ 21

TABLE INDEX

Table 1: Comparison of Routing Protocols……………………… 16

 FIGURE INDEX

Figure 1: Typical Architecture of a Wireless Mesh Network…… 16

ABSTRACT
Wireless Mesh Networks (WMNs) represent a transformative approach to
wireless communication by creating decentralized and self-organizing
networks. WMNs enhance coverage, improve reliability, and lower
deployment costs by utilizing multiple interconnected nodes. This report
explores the fundamental concepts of WMNs, detailing their architecture, key
features, and associated challenges. It delves into various routing algorithms
and network protocols, evaluating their impact on performance. The findings
indicate that WMNs offer significant benefits for extending wireless
connectivity in both urban and rural settings, while also presenting specific
challenges that need to be addressed.
 CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Wireless networks have become an integral part of modern communication, offering

unparalleled flexibility and mobility that traditional wired networks cannot match. Their
ability to support a wide range of applications—from personal devices to large-scale
enterprise systems—makes them essential for both personal and professional
environments. However, despite their significant advantages, wireless networks are not
without their challenges. Issues such as signal interference, limited bandwidth, security
vulnerabilities, and scalability concerns can impact their performance, reliability, and
overall user experience.

This report aims to outline these key problems in detail, offering a comprehensive analysis
of their implications for network functionality and user satisfaction. By examining the root
causes of these issues and evaluating current strategies and technologies designed to
address them, the report seeks to provide actionable insights and potential solutions.
Additionally, it will explore emerging trends and advancements that could shape the future
of wireless networking, emphasizing the importance of ongoing research and innovation in
overcoming these challenges and enhancing the effectiveness of wireless communication
systems.

1.1 Problem Statement

Traditional wireless networks often struggle with coverage limitations, reliability issues,
and scalability challenges, particularly in areas where deploying conventional
infrastructure is impractical. WMNs address these issues by creating a network of
interconnected nodes that work together to provide extensive coverage and enhance
network resilience.

1.2 Importance of Addressing the Problem

Solving the limitations of traditional wireless networks is crucial for expanding

connectivity, especially in underserved areas. WMNs offer a cost-effective and scalable
solution by utilizing existing resources to create flexible, self-healing network
infrastructures. Addressing these challenges is vital for improving user experience,
enhancing security, and supporting technological advancements.

1.3 Clarify Terminology

In the context of wireless networks, it’s essential to clarify key terminology to ensure a
clear understanding of the concepts discussed in this report. Below is a list of important
terms and their definitions:

Wireless Networks: Networks that use radio frequency (RF) signals to transmit and
receive data without the need for physical cables. They enable devices to connect and
communicate over distances, offering mobility and flexibility.

Bandwidth: The maximum rate at which data can be transmitted over a network
connection. Higher bandwidth allows for more data to be transferred in a given period,
improving network performance.

Latency: The time delay experienced between sending a request and receiving a response
over the network. Lower latency is crucial for real-time applications such as video
conferencing and online gaming.

Signal Interference: Disruption of wireless signals caused by physical obstacles,

electronic devices, or other wireless networks operating on the same or adjacent
frequencies. Interference can degrade network performance and reliability.

Network Security: Measures and protocols designed to protect wireless networks from
unauthorized access, attacks, and breaches. Security includes encryption, authentication,
and other protective mechanisms to safeguard data integrity and privacy.

Scalability: The ability of a network to handle an increasing number of devices or higher

volumes of traffic without a significant decline in performance. Scalable networks can
adapt to growing demands and evolving technologies.

Routing Protocols: Algorithms and protocols used to determine the most efficient path
for data to travel from one device to another within a network. These protocols are crucial
for managing network traffic and optimizing performance.
Self-Healing Networks: Networks designed to automatically detect and recover from
failures or disruptions. Self-healing capabilities improve network reliability and minimize
downtime.

Quality of Service (QoS): Techniques used to prioritize certain types of network traffic to
ensure the performance of critical applications. QoS helps manage bandwidth and reduce
latency for high-priority services.
 CHAPTER TWO: MAIN TEXT

2.0 Problem Description and Specification

2.1 Network Architecture

Wireless Mesh Networks consist of three main components:

Mesh Clients: Devices that connect to the mesh network to access services.

Mesh Routers: Nodes that route data within the network and forward it to other nodes.

Gateway Nodes: Nodes that connect the mesh network to external networks, such as the
Internet.

2.2 Key Features

Self-Healing: WMNs can automatically reconfigure themselves if a node fails, ensuring

continuous network availability.

Scalability: Additional nodes can be added to the network without significant

reconfiguration, allowing the network to grow as needed.

Cost Efficiency: Utilizing existing hardware and reducing the need for extensive wiring
lowers deployment costs.

2.3 Routing Algorithms

2.3.1 Ad-Hoc On-Demand Distance Vector (AODV) Routing

AODV is a popular routing protocol for WMNs, which establishes routes dynamically as
needed. This protocol minimizes overhead by creating routes only when required and
maintains them as long as needed.

2.3.2 Optimized Link State Routing (OLSR)

OLSR is a proactive routing protocol that maintains up-to-date routing information,

providing quicker route discovery at the expense of increased overhead.
2.4 Visual Aids

Figure 1: Typical Architecture of a Wireless Mesh Network

Table 1: Comparison of Routing Protocols

2.5 Data Collection and Analysis

Data for this report was collected from a combination of theoretical research and practical
case studies of existing WMNs. The findings were analyzed to assess the performance of
different routing protocols and the overall efficiency of WMNs in various environments.

2.6 Discussion

The analysis shows that WMNs can significantly improve connectivity and reliability in
both urban and rural settings. However, challenges such as interference, limited
bandwidth, and security concerns must be addressed to fully realize their potential.
 CHAPTER THREE: CONCLUSION

3.0 Conclusion

In conclusion, Wireless Mesh Networks (WMNs) offer a transformative approach to

expanding wireless coverage and enhancing network reliability by creating resilient, self-
healing, and scalable network architectures. Through the deployment of innovative routing
protocols and advanced network management strategies, WMNs can significantly improve
performance metrics such as throughput, latency, and overall network efficiency.

However, the effective implementation of WMNs is not without its challenges. Security
concerns, including potential vulnerabilities to attacks and unauthorized access, must be
addressed through robust encryption and authentication mechanisms. Additionally,
managing network interference and optimizing spectrum use are crucial to maintaining
high-quality connectivity.

Future work should prioritize the development of more adaptive and intelligent routing
algorithms that can dynamically respond to changing network conditions and traffic
patterns. Furthermore, exploring advanced security frameworks and protocols will be vital
in safeguarding data integrity and user privacy. Research into integrating WMNs with
emerging technologies, such as Internet of Things (IoT) devices and 5G networks, could
also unlock new opportunities for enhanced connectivity and service delivery.

By addressing these challenges and pursuing innovative solutions, WMNs have the
potential to play a pivotal role in bridging digital divides, supporting smart city initiatives,
and fostering more resilient communication infrastructures.

3.1 Problems and Enhancements

While this report highlights the benefits of WMNs, issues such as network congestion and
limited bandwidth in densely populated areas require further research. Future
enhancements may include integrating advanced technologies like machine learning for
dynamic network optimization and improved security protocols.
References

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Vector (AODV) Routing," *RFC 3561*, July 2003. [Online]. Available: https://www.rfc-
editor.org/rfc/rfc3561.txt

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Protocols," *Internet Engineering Task Force*, 2021. [Online]. Available:
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