Evaluating the Potential of Mesh Networks in Enhancing Rural Connectivity based on Internet of Thing


 


 


Neelima Gurrapu1,*, Akhil Nair R.2, C. Laxmikanth Reddy3, V. V. J. Rama Krishnaiah4, S. Shiek Aalam5, Kancharla Suresh6

                                                                                                      

1 Department of computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, SR University, Warangal, Telangana, India.

2 Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Velammal Engineering College, Chennai, TN, India.

3Dept. of ECE, Malla Reddy Engineering College, Secunderabad, Telangana, India.

4 Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation, Vaddeswaram, Andhra Pradesh, India

5Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, TN, India.

6Dept. of ECE, St. Martin's Engineering College, Secunderabad, Telangana, India.

 

Emails: gneelima83@gmail.com; akhiln240@gmail.com; laxmikanth.chitukuri@gmail.com; jkvemula@gmail.com; sheikaalam@gmail.com; suresh.kanchrala@gmail.com

Text Box: Abstract Rural communities struggle to connect to the internet, a phenomenon known as the "digital divide." Mesh networks, with improved access in rural regions, might help to tackle this problem. From a social, economic, and scientific standpoint, this study investigated whether mesh networks may improve rural connectivity. This project developed and implemented methodologies to assess community participation, cost, and network coverage. Five well-known methods were pitted against these ones. Locals are working on a mesh node placement project in a rural location with diverse topography. In terms of network coverage, the Network Coverage Assessment revealed that the proposed approach frequently outperformed the most recent approaches. Finding the ideal locations for mesh nodes helped to tackle challenges in rural regions. After putting the strategy into effect, the Cost-Effectiveness Analysis revealed a positive ROI. Many alternative options seemed unprofitable. On the Community Engagement Index, the recommended method performed better than others. Participating in network activities with individuals from the local community helps to foster ownership and shared accountability.

Received: August 27, 2023 Revised: November 27, 2023 Accepted: April: 26, 2024

 

Keywords: Economic viability; Engagement; Infrastructure; Mesh networks; Network coverage; Sustainability; Wireless technology; Network deployment