MSM7xx Controllers Configuration Guide v6.4.0

Using 802.11a/n for local mesh
HP recommends that 802.11a/n in the 5 GHz band be used for local mesh links whenever possible.
This optimizes throughput and reduces the potential for interference because:
• Most Wi-Fi clients support 802.11b or b/g, therefore most APs are set to operate in the 2.4
GHz band. This frees the 5 GHz (802.11a/n) band for other applications such as local mesh.
• 802.11a/n channels in the 5 GHz band are non-overlapping.
• 802.11a/n provides increased data throughput, providing a fat pipe for traffic exchange.
The main limitations in using the 5 GHz band are:
• Since the same radio options must be used for both wireless clients and local mesh links,
support for 802.11b/g clients is not possible on APs with a single radio.
• The 5 GHZ band has a shorter reach when compared to the 2.4 GHz band. This could be a
factor depending on the distance your links must span.
Local mesh terminology
The following table defines terms that are used in this guide when discussing the local mesh feature.
Downstream
lin
k
Root node
Root network
Upstream
lin
k
Alternate master node Slave node
AP 1
AP 3
AP 2
DefinitionTerm
An AP that is configured to support local mesh connections.Node
The root node is configured in Master mode and provides access to the root network.Root node
A node that is configured in Alternate master mode which enables it to make upstream
and downstream connections.
Alternate master node
A node that is configured in Slave mode which enables it to make upstream
connections only.
Slave node
Wired network to which the root node is connected. This is the network to which the
local mesh provides access for all connected alternate master and slave nodes.
Root network
A series of nodes that connect to form a network. Each mesh is identified by a unique
mesh ID.
Mesh
Local mesh terminology 385