Top OLSR (Optimized Link State Routing) Alternatives for Robust Mesh Networks

OLSR (Optimized Link State Routing) is a well-regarded link-state routing protocol, specifically designed for mobile ad-hoc networks (MANETs) and often utilized in mesh network setups. Its implementations, olsrd and olsrd2, are crucial routing daemons that facilitate communication on embedded devices like routers, smartphones, and computers. While OLSR is effective, various use cases and evolving network demands often necessitate exploring OLSR (Optimized Link State Routing) alternatives. This article delves into several compelling options that offer different features, platforms, and approaches to decentralized networking.

Best OLSR (Optimized Link State Routing) Alternatives

If you're seeking a different approach to mesh networking, or require specific features beyond what OLSR provides, these alternatives offer robust and innovative solutions for secure, decentralized, and scalable networks.

GNUnet

GNUnet is a powerful and secure peer-to-peer networking framework that operates without reliance on centralized or trusted services. As a Free and Open Source solution available on Mac, Windows, Linux, and BSD, it's a strong OLSR (Optimized Link State Routing) alternative for those prioritizing decentralized, distributed, and peer-to-peer mesh networking with backup capabilities.

cjdns

Cjdns is a networking protocol and its reference implementation, built on the principle of easy setup and smooth scaling. This Free and Open Source OLSR (Optimized Link State Routing) alternative, compatible with Mac, Linux, and BSD, provides a robust solution for decentralized, distributed, and peer-to-peer mesh networking, focusing on inherent scalability.

LibreMesh

LibreMesh extends the OpenWrt router distribution, offering a set of modules for creating self-configuring wireless and wired mesh networks, often using ad-hoc Wi-Fi by default. As a Free solution for Linux, OpenWrt, and LEDE, it's an excellent OLSR (Optimized Link State Routing) alternative for those working with router-based systems, emphasizing decentralized and distributed mesh networking capabilities.

telehash

Telehash is an embeddable private network stack designed for various devices, making it a flexible OLSR (Optimized Link State Routing) alternative. This Free and Open Source solution is available across Mac, Windows, Linux, and JavaScript environments, providing a foundational layer for private network communications.

OpenWISP

OpenWISP is a comprehensive Free and Open Source software platform, self-hostable on Linux, designed for implementing complete public Wi-Fi services. It stands out as an OLSR (Optimized Link State Routing) alternative for larger deployments, offering robust mesh network management and user management functionalities.

Babel (protocol)

Babel is a loop-avoiding distance-vector routing protocol for both IPv6 and IPv4, known for its fast convergence properties. As a Free and Open Source protocol available on Mac, Windows, and Linux, it serves as a strong OLSR (Optimized Link State Routing) alternative, particularly for those focused on efficient and reliable routing with an emphasis on anonymity features.

ninux

Ninux is a wireless network community dedicated to creating and expanding a free, open, and experimental computer network. As a Free and Open Source Linux-based OLSR (Optimized Link State Routing) alternative, it provides features like anonymity, censorship bypass, and a robust mesh network, ideal for community-driven networking initiatives.

Digitata

Digitata is a project focused on providing technology to the Digital Generation under Open Hardware licensing. This Free and Open Source OLSR (Optimized Link State Routing) alternative is accessible on Mac, Windows, Linux, and Web platforms, offering anonymity as a key feature.

Qaul

Qaul is an ad-hoc wireless mesh-network suite that leverages everyday devices like computers and smartphones to establish a democratic, non-centralized mesh network. As a Free and Open Source C++ solution for Mac, Windows, and Linux, it's a compelling OLSR (Optimized Link State Routing) alternative for building resilient and independent mesh networks.

CCNx

Project CCNx is dedicated to developing, promoting, and evaluating a new communication architecture known as content-centric networking. This Free and Open Source OLSR (Optimized Link State Routing) alternative is available across Mac, Windows, Linux, and tvOS, offering a different paradigm for network communication.

Choosing the best OLSR (Optimized Link State Routing) alternative depends heavily on your specific project requirements, platform preferences, and the features most critical to your mesh network's success. We encourage you to explore these options further to find the perfect fit for your needs.