Method for maximizing throughput for multiple links using directional elements

In an imperfect mesh network or in a star network, the directionality of transmission and reception at each node, as through a directional antenna, is selected to maximize combined or multiple-link end-to-end information throughput. To this end, a maximum throughput metric is provided for separate links through the network between a source node and a collection of end-point nodes to be optimized which is based on 1) measurement of link quality with respect to neighboring nodes and 2) information about link quality and other factors related to propagation delay or "latency" as reported to it by other nodes regarding their neighboring links, and 3) based upon the busy-ness or capacity utilization at each link.