Evaluating the Advantages and Challenges of Mobile Ad-Hoc Networks

Abstract

Mobile Ad-Hoc Networks (MANETs) are decentralized assemblies of mobile nodes, including smartphones, laptops, iPads, and PDAs, that operate autonomously, contrasting with conventional wireless networks. These networks dynamically adapt their topology and routing tables as nodes join or leave, ensuring a seamless data packet transmission. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of MANETs, elucidating their advantages, challenges, and diverse applications. Unlike traditional networks that require a centralized administrator, MANETs enable mobile nodes to exchange data packets solely through wireless links. However, the volatile topologies and limited resources challenge establishing a power-efficient and secure routing system. This study introduces a reliable routing mechanism considering network power consumption and node reputation. Utilizing a Krill Herd-based Grasshopper Optimization Algorithm (KH-GOA), in conjunction with a reputation model, the proposed system establishes a trustworthy route between the origin and destination nodes. The reputation model considers node mobility, actual capabilities, historical performance, and peer reviews. Upon evaluating these reputation metrics, the KH-GOA method is employed, amalgamating the Krill Herd (KH) and Grasshopper Optimization Algorithm (GOA) techniques. The proposed KH-GOA-based routing protocol considers multi-objective criteria like reputation, power efficiency, distance, and latency for optimal route selection.