Performance study of WiMAX mesh networks

The IEEE 802.16 standard has defined two modes of operation: Point-to-Multipoint as well as Mesh mode. The mesh mode enables better scalability and enhanced coverage as the network topology is able to support traffic relay functions. Capabilities of the WiMAX Mesh network and methods to improve the performance of the network need to be examined as they are loosely defined in the standards. Close attention would be paid on areas of Quality-of-Service (QoS) provisioning as well as traffic relay issues in order to take full advantage of the network for optimum performance. In this project, a detailed background study covering the basics of WiMAX and the mesh mode of operations builds a good understanding of the inner workings of this new wireless technology. It then examines the QoS provisioning scheme via the concept of Urgency Index proposed before. A study on traffic relay algorithms follows with several algorithms considered for in depth review. These algorithms combine interference handling abilities together with fixed or dynamic allocation techniques with the final aim of minimizing packet loss through reducing packets dropped and delay time. An enhanced traffic relaying scheduler is also proposed with goals of attaining higher performance. The algorithms are put into a simulation model and the results from the proposed scheduler show significant improvement in comparison with previous work. They provide fairness among nodes while reducing overall packet loss and delay time. In particular, the proposed hybrid Bi-directional monitor algorithm exhibits potential with excellent results. The main contribution of this work is in the area of traffic relay algorithms and the examination of different approaches within this area. Building upon the QoS provisioning framework, an efficient traffic relay algorithm is proposed to further enhance performance on the WiMAX mesh network. This aids future studies on the topic of mesh network optimization.Bachelor of Engineerin