IoT networking extension with bi-directional packet relay

A machine-implemented method for relaying data packets in an Internet of Things (IoT) network, comprising:

• transmitting and receiving data packets that require upstream or downstream relay support;
• switching a receiver polarity when switching between an upstream relay mode and a downstream relay mode;
• and
• alternating between upstream and downstream relaying of received data packets that require upstream or downstream relay support.

A non-transitory computer readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed, direct a processor to:

• transmit and receive Internet of Things (IoT) network data packets that require upstream or downstream relay support;
• switch a receiver polarity when switching between an upstream relay mode and a downstream relay mode;
• and
• alternate between upstream and downstream relaying of received data packets that require upstream or downstream relay support.

An Internet of Things (IoT) network, comprising:

• a first IoT device;
• a second IoT device;
• and
• a third IoT device, comprising:
• a transceiver to transmit data packets to the first IoT device and the second IoT device, and to receive data packets from the first IoT device and the second IoT device;
• and
• a controller to alternate between upstream and downstream relaying of data packets between the first IoT device and the second IoT device via the transceiver, and to switch a polarity of the transceiver when switching between an upstream relay mode and a downstream relay mode.