Throughput Optimization of Wireless Mesh Networks with MIMO Links

In this paper we are interested in characterizing the benefits of cross-layer optimizations in interference limited wireless mesh networks with MIMO links. We formulate a framework where data routing at the protocol layer, link scheduling at the MAC layer and stream control at the physical layer can be jointly optimized for throughput maximization in the presence of interference. We then develop efficient algorithms to solve the resulting throughput optimization problem subject to fairness constraints. We show that our algorithm is able to compute the maximum achievable throughput to within a constant factor. Moreover, our evaluation results show that exploiting MIMO capability leads to significant throughput gain. To the best of our knowledge, our work is the first step in analytically characterizing the benefits of cross-layer optimization for mesh networks with MIMO links and may serve as a valuable tool for protocol and network designers.