Self-X Evaluation Model for Wireless Mesh Networks

Wireless network infrastructures such as Wireless Mesh Networks (WMNs) are increasingly applied for various applications. Increasing complexity concerning configuration, organization, management and maintenance is a major issue in WMNs. Self-X has been recognized as a key feature to address and overcome this complexity problem. Despite the demand on evaluating WMNs in terms of Self-X capabilities, we did not find in literature any evaluation model that can be applied on WMNs. In this paper, we propose a novel model to evaluate the Self-X capabilities of WMNs. In our model, we develop three "performance functions" which include major system properties: autonomy, availability, and Quality of Service (QoS) in general. In addition, we define "acceptance criteria" for those "performance functions" which are necessary to show if the WMN performs acceptably well. The proof of concept shows more practically that combining performance functions and acceptance criteria enable evaluating a WMN concerning Self-X capabilities.