ROUTING PROTOCOLS IN WIRELESS Ad-Hoc NETWORKS

Abstract

A Mobile Ad Hoc Network (MANET) is a decentralized wireless system where nodes communicate dynamically without relying on fixed infrastructure. Due to their self-organizing nature, MANETs have become a crucial research area, particularly in addressing challenges related to mobility and bandwidth constraints. Data transmission occurs through multiple network hops, with each node acting as a router to forward packets toward their destination. Traditional routing protocols designed for fixed networks struggle to adapt to MANETs' dynamic topology, necessitating specialized routing mechanisms. Routing protocols are often classified into reactive, proactive, and hybrid models, with research focusing on their efficiency in handling network disruptions. Studies highlight the importance of adaptive routing strategies to ensure reliable communication in MANET environments.