Reliable routing and resource allocation scheme for hybrid RF/FSO networks

Significant success of wireless networks in the last decade has changed the paradigms of communication networks design. In particular, the growing interest in wireless mesh networks (WMNs) is observed. WMNs offer an attractive alternative to conventional cable infrastructures, especially in urban areas, where the cost of new installations is almost prohibitive. Unfortunately, the performance of WMNs is often limited by the cluttered RF spectrum and channel interference. Free space optical (FSO) technology is a possible solution for IP traffic connectivity, but weather-based disruptions, e.g., clouds, fog, and snow, highly affect the service availability in the network. However, FSO links can provide much higher data rates than RF links and do not interfere with RF links. In this paper, we first outline the important aspects that should be taken into account when determining allocation of network resources (link capacities) for the purpose of serving the demands. The latter part of the paper is to introduce the respective ILP model as well as heuristic algorithm to determine routing in hybrid RF/FSO networks with special focus on resistance of FSO links to weather-based disruptions.