Tree-like Topology

The APs in Mesh configuration can be regarded as nodes, and these nodes form a tree-like structure. The tree builds in a top down manner with the Mesh Portal being the tree root, and the Mesh AP being the tree leaves.

The nodes in the tree-structure have a parent-child relationship. The Mesh AP dynamically selects the best parent for connecting to the Mesh portal. A Mesh AP can have the role of both parent and child at the same time and the AP‘s role can change dynamically.

Parent-Child Relationship Between Wireless APs in Mesh Configuration illustrates the parent-child relationship between the nodes in a Mesh topology.

• Mesh Portal is the parent of Mesh AP 1.
• Mesh AP 1 is the child of Mesh Portal.
• Mesh AP 1 is the parent of Mesh AP 2.
• Mesh AP 2 is the child of Mesh AP 1.
• Mesh AP 2 is the parent of the following Wireless APs:
  • Mesh AP 5
  • Mesh AP 4
  • Mesh AP 3
• All the three Mesh APs are the children of Mesh AP 2.
  

  Parent-Child Relationship Between Wireless APs in Mesh Configuration

  

Note

If an AP is configured to serve as a scanner in Radar, it cannot be used in a Mesh tree. For more information, see Working with ExtremeWireless Radar.

Note

It is recommended that you limit the number of APs participating in a Mesh tree to 50. This limit guarantees decent performance in most typical situations.