Espressif Systems (688018.SH) introduces ESP-Mesh-Lite: a Wi-Fi-Based mesh networking solution for seamless connectivity across larger areas, enabling the effortless interconnection of numerous devices. This innovative Wi-Fi Mesh technology offers flexible and reliable IoT networking, ensuring that users enjoy fast, stable and secure Wi-Fi coverage, without the constraints of device quantity or router placement.

ESP-Mesh-Lite Network Architecture

In a traditional Wi-Fi network, all terminal devices need to establish direct connections with the router, limiting Wi-Fi coverage due to router placement, while also imposing capacity limitations to the number of devices that can be accommodated. However, the network architecture of ESP-Mesh-Lite  materializes the concept of wireless self-organization, enabling terminal devices to connect with neighboring ones and, therefore, eliminating their reliance on router placement and any capacity constraints. This architecture not only extends Wi-Fi coverage but also supports the interconnectivity of a larger number of devices, which enhances user convenience significantly. 

Traditional Wi-Fi Network vs ESP-Mesh-Lite Network

In the ESP-Mesh-Lite architecture, sub-nodes have a direct access to external networks. Thus, without the need for any root node application layer involvement, seamless connectivity can be achieved at the root node's application layer.  Consequently, the ESP- Mesh-Lite architecture simplifies application logic development, while also enabling effortless scalability across different device categories. Furthermore, the mesh network continuously supports the connection of other standard Wi-Fi devices which enhances the network’s overall adaptability.

Utilizing ESP-Mesh-Lite for External Network Access

ESP-Mesh-Lite is compatible with a range of Espressif Wi-Fi SoCs, including those in the ESP32, ESP32-C and ESP32-S series. It is ideal for automation scenarios, such as smart homes, intelligent irrigation, plant lighting, smart charging stations, solar power generation, and other applications that require multi-device network deployment and group control. This solution enables seamless automation by facilitating the efficient interconnectivity of smart devices. 

ESP-Mesh-Lite Advantages

1. Self-Forming and Self-Healing

Terminal devices automatically connect to stronger-signal nodes, and form an ESP-Mesh-Lite network. For example, when a node in the network disconnects, alternative nodes get automatically interconnected, thus enabling the network to “self-heal”. This mechanism ensures that even if some devices in the mesh network fail, other devices can still maintain a stable connection. 

2. High Throughput

Compared to Thread, Zigbee, or Bluetooth Mesh, Wi-Fi offers a faster network transmission and higher device-communication speeds. ESP-Mesh-Lite excels in scenarios with high throughput needs, like simultaneous device reporting and OTA upgrades.

3. Multi-Device Connectivity

ESP-Mesh-Lite provides a wide range of Wi-Fi devices with direct internet access and seamless interconnectivity among various device types.

4. Easy Deployment and Scalability

No gateway or border router is needed, which makes network expansion effortless, since any device can connect to a neighboring one .

5. Quick Migration

ESP-Mesh-Lite can seamlessly be integrated into existing Wi-Fi applications with a minimal setup, reducing development and maintenance costs.

ESP-Mesh-Lite & ESP RainMaker 

By integrating the ESP-Mesh-Lite solution with Espressif's AIoT private Cloud solution, ESP RainMaker, users can achieve local device control, or even low-latency Cloud-based remote control, just with an app. The solution also supports group management for devices within the Mesh network, and facilitates remote group-control, by activating features such as scene automation, ambiance settings, scheduled switching, and more. Click here to view an LED Light example.

ESP-Mesh-Lite presents an innovative Wi-Fi networking solution that stands out due to its flexible network architecture, flawless connectivity performance, and minimal overhead. This solution unlocks fresh opportunities across domains such as smart homes, smart agriculture, and energy management, ultimately providing users with a more stable and efficient Wi-Fi connectivity experience.

If you are interested in Espressif's ESP-Mesh-Lite protocol and related solutions, please contact our customer support team, who will try and assist you as soon as possible.