A process for forming a wireless mesh network (WMN) in which client coverage is calculated using a point-to-point propagation loss model and optimal routing and power allocation is determined to quantify the value of network flow. In one embodiment, the process calculates loss based on access point locations, operating characteristics and terrain and environment information. In one embodiment, the network flow and coverage subproblem values are combined via a penalty function. The process creates WMN topologies that maximize client coverage area by choice of access point locations, subject to constraints on network flow and power allocation, number and technical capabilities of access points, background and environmental noise, and radio propagation over terrain.