Groups hope to avoid mesh standard mess

As each unique IP-address node is connected to several other nodes, mesh topologies establish a robust wireless networking environment. An IEEE 802.11s standard would make the networks interoperable as well. The proponents of standardized mesh networks envision technology that complements WiMax in delivering long-range, high-standard data to nomadic end users, as well as protocols such as the IEEE 802.15 personal area network standard. The most ballyhooed use of wireless mesh networks is in extending high-speed Internet access via either a campus or metro configuration. As such, mesh networks are a highly disruptive technology, requiring comparatively little hard wiring to the Internet. Consequently, they're becoming an increasingly popular network topology for small ISPs, community groups, and academic researchers building low-cost, high-speed networks.