Wireless Mesh Networks.

A technology that fascinates me is wireless mesh networks. Think of the potential. Theoretically, we could get everyone to setup a node in their home. This would provide them with internet access and also provide internet access to others. Theoretically we could eliminate the need for ISPs and cellular providers. Yes, yes, that is very theoretical and ambitious – but possible.

I’m not going to write a whole bunch on wireless mesh networks theory, I’ll let you read the wikipedia article on wireless mesh and ad hoc networks. Rather, I’d like to share with you a few of the companies innovating on this front:

• Meru – Somewhat expensive comparatively.
• Meraki – Somewhat inexpensive comparatively. Their basic indoor unit will run $150/ea.
• Open-Mesh – Inexpensive solutions. These units start at $60/ea!
• Fon – Offers an 802.11n router for $100. Widely utilized around the world, allows you to connect for free to other Fon routers around the world and charge non-Fon users for access to your Fon router.
• Firetide.

Other Resources:

• Tomas Krag and Sebastian Buettrich (for O’Reilly) on wireless mesh networking (2004).
• Dave Roos (for HowStuffWorks) on how wireless mesh networks work.

Related articles

• Firetide Ranked #1 Supplier in Americas’ Market for Wireless Mesh Network Equipment Used in Video Surveillance (eon.businesswire.com)