Method and apparatus for optimized routing in networks that include free space directional links

摘要

A method and apparatus is described for optimized routing in networks that include a free space directional link. A free space directional link within a network is monitored at the physical and/or data link layer and a router/routing layer protocol is notified regarding the status of the monitored free space directional link. By monitoring the transmitted signal at the physical and/or data link layer, the present invention avoids reliance upon less frequent control messages to determine free space directional link status, thereby allowing the router/routing layer to be notified more quickly of, and respond more quickly to, changes in free space directional link status.