What is a mesh interconnection network?

In a mesh interconnection network, each device in the network sends its own signals and information. Each device or node on the network is connected to the others, and this connection allows information to be relayed across the network from any node without delay or failure.

Mesh networks provide redundancy in the event of a communication link failure by enabling data to be routed through any other site connected to the network, providing an extra layer of security in case of a problem or error. Even if one node fails, the entire network can continue functioning.

Types of mesh interconnection networks

There are two types of mesh interconnection networks to be aware of — partial and full mesh networks. 

In a partial mesh network, some of the systems in the network are connected as a mesh topology while other devices only connect to two or three other devices in the system.

In a full mesh network, every device across the network is connected to all other devices in the system.

Advantages of mesh interconnection networks

Mesh interconnection networks offer several advantages. Data-oriented organizations use mesh interconnection networks with built-in redundancy to reduce latency and secure faster growth benefits with high-availability connections. Key advantages include—

•  Increased scalability
•  Enhanced robustness
•  Provides more security and privacy protection
•  Fastest paths and load balance of information in the network
•  Every connection is able to carry its own data load
•  Network redundancy with the best possibility that the network is always available

Disadvantages of mesh interconnection networks

There are, however, downsides to mesh interconnection networks as well. For example, a common barrier is the noticeable upfront cost required for mesh networks. Key disadvantages include— 

•  Higher cost
•  Greater administrative overhead
•  Difficult installation and configuration
•  Bulk communication links required to implement

Examples of mesh interconnection networks

Examples of mesh interconnection networks are increasingly found in many growing sectors, from industrial to advertising to public sectors and beyond. As the Internet of Things expands, this adoption of mesh interconnection networks will likely continue to increase as well. The following applications are examples of modern mesh interconnect architecture used today: 

•  Public Service Communications
•  Broadband Wireless Access
•  Military Communications 
•  Security Systems 
•  Medical Monitoring
•  Environmental Monitoring 

Mesh Interconnection Networks will prove more and more important as edge computing, networking, and colocation needs explode:

•  The number of Internet of Things (IoT) devices will triple from 2020 to 2030, owing to a compound annual growth rate of 11%
•  The fastest-growing segments will be manufacturing and natural resources (18% CAGR), healthcare providers (13% GAGR), and smart buildings (12% CAGR)
•  Global cloud data center traffic already reached 19.5 zetabytes (ZB) per year by 2021–a 27% CAGR from 2016

How Flexential Interconnection Mesh works

By leveraging the scale and robustness of mesh interconnect networks, Flexential can future-proof multi-site connections and colocation deployments. For growing organizations, this means simplified network connectivity and built-in redundancy that supports any-to-any types of connection.

This process is streamlined so that organizations can manage and scale their connectivity needs at a moment’s notice. The Flexential Interconnection Mesh helps them stay ahead of the evolving requirements of a rapidly changing digital landscape.

Reduce complexity and streamline your data center interconnection strategy for multi-site deployments. Learn more about Flexential Interconnection Mesh or reach out to our team for a quote today.