Wireless Mesh Network Planning and Optimization through Genetic Algorithms

Wireless mesh networks (WMNs) are a promising technology for providing broadband wireless access to the end user. They offer a higher degree of flexibility compared to traditional networks but on the expense of a more complex structure. Thus, planning and optimization of WMNs is a challenge. In this paper, we address this challenge using genetic algorithms. Genetic algorithms are able to evaluate and optimize large-scale WMNs in relatively small computation time. The results prove the effectiveness of the genetic operators to optimize the routing and channel assignment in WMNs.