HWMP+ (Hybrid Wireless Mesh Protocol Plus) is a routing protocol used in wireless mesh networks, specifically designed to work with MikroTik RouterOS technology. It is an enhanced version of the standard HWMP protocol that is part of the 802.11s specification for WLAN mesh networks. HWMP+ in MikroTik offers a flexible and efficient approach to route management in a mesh network.

Main Features of HWMP+

1. Mesh Routing Protocol:

• HWMP+ is a routing protocol designed for wireless mesh networks that enables automatic and dynamic interconnection between mesh nodes.

2. Hybrid (Proactive and Reactive):

• HWMP+ operates in a hybrid manner. It uses proactive routing within the local mesh itself to always maintain up-to-date information on internal routes. For external or more distant routes, use a reactive approach, where routes are created only when they are needed.

3. Root Path and Mesh Portal:

• In an HWMP+ configuration, a node can be designated as “root.” This node acts as a central point to optimize the routing of traffic within the mesh. Additionally, mesh portals can be configured to connect the mesh with other networks, functioning as bridges between the mesh network and other external networks such as Ethernet or standard WLAN.

HWMP+ configuration in MikroTik

1. Activate Mesh in MikroTik:

• First, make sure MikroTik devices are configured to operate in mesh mode. This can be done in the wireless interface configuration.

2. Configure HWMP+:

• In RouterOS, you can enable HWMP+ and configure protocol options in the mesh interface properties.
• Basic configuration in the CLI:
  
  /interface mesh set mesh1 protocol=hwmp-plus

3. Designate a Root Node:

• You can designate a root node to optimize routing on the network:
  
  /interface mesh port
add interface=wlan1 mesh=mesh1
/interface mesh hwmp-plus
set mesh1 path-selection-protocol=hwmp-plus root-mode=enabled root-bridge=yes

4. Configure Mesh Portal:

• To connect your mesh network to other networks, set up a mesh portal:
  
  /interface mesh port
add interface=ether1 mesh=mesh1
  

Advantages of Using HWMP+

• Scalability: Allows the network to grow efficiently without requiring extensive manual configuration.
• Resilience: Improves the network's ability to adapt to changes, such as node failures or changes in network topology.
• Flexibility: Allows easy integration with different types of networks.

HWMP+ is a robust solution for mesh network configurations in environments where flexibility and auto-configuration are critical, such as in smart city deployments, university campuses, or large rural areas.

MikroTik provides an effective and affordable platform to deploy such networks using HWMP+.