1
Mobile Ad-Hoc Network (MANETs)
ABSTRACT
Mobile ad hoc network (MANET) is an autonomous system of mobile nodes connected by wireless links.
Each node operates not only as an end system, but also as a router to forward packets. The nodes are free to
move about and organize themselves into a network. These nodes change position frequently.
To accommodate the changing topology special routing algorithms are needed. For relatively small
networks flat routing protocols may be sufficient. However, in larger networks either hierarchical or
geographic routing protocols are needed. There is no single protocol that fits all networks perfectly. The
protocols have to be chosen according to network characteristics, such as density, size and the mobility of
the nodes. MANET does not require any fixed infrastructure, such as a base station, therefore, it is an
attractive option for connecting devices quickly and spontaneous.
MANETs can be used alone (for example in the military) or as a hybrid together with the Internet or other
networks. Different MANET applications have different needs, and hence the various MANET routing
protocols may be suitable in different areas. The size of the network and the frequency of the change in
topology are factors that affect the choice of the protocols. There is no best protocol for all applications.
There is still ongoing research on mobile ad hoc networks and the research may lead to even better protocols
and will probably face new challenges. The current goal is to find an optimal balance between scalable
routing and media access control, security, and service management.
INTRODUCTION
Information technology is rapidly changing from regular desktop computing, where isolated workstations
communicate through shared servers in a fixed network, to an environment where a large number of
different platforms communicate over multiple network platforms. In this environment the devices adapt
and reconfigure themselves individually and collectively, to support the requirements of mobile workers and
work teams.
In the next generation of wireless communication systems, there will be a need for the rapid deployment of
independent mobile users. Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs) provide communication between all nodes
in the network topology without the presence of a centralized authority; instead all nodes can function as
routers. This gives the MANETs two of its most desirable characteristics; adaptable and quick to deploy.
MANET research is still in progress, and currently MANETs are not widely used. Suggested areas of use
will include establishing efficient communication networks for mobile workers in desolate regions or in
disaster areas where existing networks have been destroyed or do not exist. To communicate in an efficient
way proper routing protocols are needed.
Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs) consist of nodes that change position frequently. To accommodate
the changing topology special routing algorithms are needed. For relatively small networks flat routing
protocols may be sufficient. However, in larger networks either hierarchical or geographic routing protocols
are needed. There is no single protocol that fits all networks perfectly. The protocols have to be chosen
according to network characteristics, such as density, size and the mobility of the nodes.