Concept Guide

Dell Networking W-Series Instant 6.4.3.1-4.2.0.0 | User Guide Mesh W-IAP Configuration | 326
Chapter 24
Mesh W-IAP Configuration
This chapter provides the following information:
l Mesh Network Overview on page 326
l Setting up Instant Mesh Network on page 327
l Configuring Wired Bridging on Ethernet 0 for Mesh Point on page 327
Mesh Network Overview
The Dell Instant secure enterprise mesh solution is an effective way to expand network coverage for outdoor
and indoor enterprise environments without any wires. As traffic traverses across mesh W-IAPs, the mesh
network automatically reconfigures around broken or blocked paths. This self-healing feature provides
increased reliability and redundancy and allows the network to continue operation even when a W-IAP stops
functioning or if a connection fails.
Mesh W-IAPs
Mesh network requires at least one valid uplink (wired or 3G) connection. Any provisioned W-IAP that has a
valid uplink (wired or 3G) functions as a mesh portal, and the W-IAP without an Ethernet link functions as a
mesh point. The mesh portal can also act as a Virtual Controller. Mesh portals and mesh points are also known
as mesh nodes, a generic term used to describe W-IAPs configured for mesh.
If two W-IAPs have valid uplink connections, there is redundancy in the mesh network, and most mesh points
try to mesh directly with one of the two portals. However, depending on the actual deployment and RF
environment, some mesh points may mesh through other intermediate mesh points.
In an Instant mesh network, the maximum hop count is two nodes (point >point >portal) and the maximum
number of mesh points per mesh portal is eight.
Mesh W-IAPs detect the environment when they boot up, locate and associate with their nearest neighbor, to
determine the best path to the mesh portal.
Instant mesh functionality is supported only on dual radio W-IAPs only. On dual-radio W-IAPs, the 5 GHz radio
is always used for both mesh-backhaul and client traffic, while the 2.4 GHz radio is always used for client
traffic.
Mesh service is automatically enabled on 802.11a band for dual-radio W-IAP only, and this is not configurable.
For W-IAP-RW variants, the mesh network must be provisioned for the first time by plugging into the wired
network. After that, mesh works on W-IAP-RWs like any other regulatory domain.
Mesh Portals
A mesh portal (MPP) is a gateway between the wireless mesh network and the enterprise wired LAN. The mesh
roles are automatically assigned based on the W-IAP configuration. A mesh network could have multiple mesh
portals to support redundant mesh paths (mesh links between neighboring mesh points that establish the best
path to the mesh portal) from the wireless mesh network to the wired LAN.