The Dual-homed or hybrid backhaul topology allows a Border Router to connect simultaneously to multiple upstream networks—such as Ethernet, cellular, or satellite links. This provides redundancy, path diversity, and traffic separation between management and data channels.

This approach enhances network resilience and offers flexible backhaul options for Wi-SUN deployments operating in varied or remote environments.

Key characteristics

  • The Border Router maintains two or more independent WAN interfaces (for example, Ethernet and cellular).

  • Traffic can fail over automatically between backhauls if one link becomes unavailable.

  • Specific traffic types (for example, telemetry vs. management) can be routed through different paths.

  • Routing and policy rules determine how each backhaul is used.

When to use

Choose a dual-homed or hybrid backhaul topology if:

  • The deployment requires continuous connectivity, even during link failures.

  • Primary and backup links are needed for high availability.

  • Different types of data (for example, operations vs. diagnostics) must use separate networks.

  • Sites use mixed infrastructure—wired in some areas, wireless in others.

Ideal for remote or distributed sites that require redundant connectivity paths or need to separate management and data traffic.

Pros and cons

  • Pros

    • Increases uptime through redundant connectivity.

    • Enables intelligent load balancing or traffic separation.

    • Improves reliability in remote or harsh environments.

    • Supports flexible use of available backhaul options.

  • Cons

    • Requires more complex routing and policy configuration.

    • Increases hardware and operational costs.

    • Coordination between links must be managed carefully to prevent asymmetric routing.

Considerations

Dual-homed or hybrid backhaul deployments present these requirements:

  • Failover behavior: Configure link priorities and detection timers to control how the Border Router switches between backhauls.

  • Routing policies: Define which traffic classes use each link to avoid congestion or misrouting.

  • Security: Apply consistent authentication and encryption policies across all WAN interfaces.

  • Monitoring: Track link health and bandwidth usage to ensure balanced utilization.