Self-configuring networks in which the nodes are connected in a mesh topology are called mesh networks. In a mesh topology, each node acts as a router to transmit traffic between peers if the destination node is not directly connected to the source node. This formation of nodes is reliable because each node is connected to other nodes, providing alternate routes to any possible incoming packet. These networks are also self organized, so if a node leaves the network, the network will reconfigure itself for potential new routes for forwarding packets. The change of topology will occur when a node leaves or joins a mesh network. This phenomenon can happen rapidly in a situation where nodes are highly mobile.
In order to understand the basic mesh mechanism, consider three wireless devices: Device 1, Device 2, and Device 3. As shown in the following diagram, Device 1 is not in the range of Device 3 but is in the range of Device 2. On the other hand, Device 3 is...