Node Types

From WugWiki

BasicNode This is a node that connects to only one other node. This type of node is essentially a wireless connection to some other point in the network. For this you'll need: a wireless device (such as a PCI or PCMCIA card, or a wireless router) and an antenna assembly (antenna and all necessary cables).

Typically, BasicNodes will have a directional antenna, connecting to 1 other node in the network.

TransitNode This is a node that connects to more than one BasicNode. This node is connected to more than one other node. These nodes are able to communicate with each other through the TransitNode. These types of nodes are very important in the network. For this node you'll need: multiple wireless devices (such as a PCI or PCMCIA Card, or a wireless router) and multiple antenna assemblies (antenna and all necessary cables), one for each wireless device. Typically, a TransitNode will have a directional antenna to connect to a BackboneNode, and a sectorial antenna to allow other Basic Nodes to connect to it.

Most people will start out as a BasicNode, and then upgrade to a TransitNode as they connect to another node.

BackboneNode This is a node that connects to more than one TransitNode. These are the core of the JAWUG network. They ensure that all the separate sub-networks in JAWUG are able to find each other and communicate. Some may even link into other wireless community networks (such as FreeNet in Pretoria). These nodes typically consist of: multiple wireless devices (In this case, wireless routers). Multiple antenna assemblies (antenna and all necessary cables). A router (Typically a Linux machine).

These nodes are usually setup by the JAWUG Core team, and are selected from existing nodes if we feel that your node would make a good BackboneNode. If you live on a hill and can see a large area below you, have a mast on your property, or live/work in a tall building, then please contact us.