A method includes obtaining performance characterization values from endpoints managed by a first fog node at a first hierarchical level in a hierarchy of fog nodes. The method includes changing a first operating characteristic of the wireless network based on the performance characterization values. The first operating characteristic affects the operation of one or more of the endpoints. The method includes transmitting a portion of the performance characterization values to a second fog node at a second hierarchical level in the hierarchy of fog nodes. The method includes changing a second operating characteristic of the wireless network based on an instruction from the second fog node. The second operating characteristic affects the operation of the first fog node and/or other fog nodes at the first hierarchical level. Changing one or more of the first operating characteristic and the second operating characteristic satisfies an operating threshold for the wireless network.