Mesh networks figure extensively in my Incarnate series. They’re used by the forty-eights – and others – as a way to run parallel ‘internets’ so as not to be tracked on the original internet. But mesh networks are not all science fiction – they’re actually being used in the real world.
Mesh Networks are made up of two components- devices and nodes. These networks are already beginning to revolutionize the scope of the Internet of Things which require network connections that are strong in nature in order to collect, send and receive data.
Traditional WLAN (left) versus Wireless Mesh Network (right)
From a technological perspective, a mesh network is both efficient and effective when it comes to putting cutting edge connectivity to work. Mesh networks could provide people with an easy way to deploy a trustworthy network without the old installations which can be costly.
Instead of depending on the old wireless routers which need to be rebooted and managed, the network of mesh will adapt with the needs of different environments and will easily scale the growth. Further, network speeds will become decentralized and will no longer be a subject to individual ISPs.
Mesh Networks can be used to make what are called ‘smart cities.’ An excellent example is Scottsdale, Arizona to help with traffic congestion. Catalonia, Spain is using a mesh network called GUIFI-net in order to expand internet access to rural areas. Jalalabad in Afghanistan has built its own mesh network called FabFI essentially out of spare parts to bring internet to remote areas in the devastated country.
Natural disasters are likely to take one complete area offline for weeks or months. Mesh Networks could be deployed to these areas after a disaster to offer support by connectivity that is essential to coordinate with the supply deliveries as well as to execute the efforts for rescue.
Most of the mobile devices can connect with the internet through a data plan or by accessing the wireless network. With mesh networks, the quality of service could be increased with a lower cost for consumers.
How to Build a Wireless Mesh Network – https://blog.particle.io/2018/04/28/how-to-build-a-wireless-mesh-network/
Build Your Own Internet – https://www.inverse.com/article/39507-mesh-networks-net-neutrality-fcc