What is Wi-SUN?
Wi-SUN (Wireless Smart Utility Network) is a standards-based, self-forming and self-healing mesh networking technology built on IEEE 802.15.4g/e and IETF 6LoWPAN standards. It uses IPv6 addressing to enable large-scale wireless communication between distributed devices over sub-GHz frequency bands such as 900 MHz (North America) or 868 MHz (Europe).
Wi-SUN is commonly used in utility and infrastructure applications, including smart metering, street lighting, and grid automation, where reliable, long-range, and scalable communication is required.
A Wi-SUN network typically includes a device known as a Border Router, which connects the wireless mesh network to an external network such as Ethernet or a cellular backhaul. The Border Router is responsible for:
- Forming and managing the mesh network
- Assigning and routing IPv6 addresses
- Handling network security and authentication
- Acting as the gateway between the Wi-SUN mesh and external IP networks
Wi-SUN networks are designed to support large numbers of nodes, robust security, and reliable communication in challenging RF environments.
Last updated:
Mar 17, 2026