NetMoAd: Scalability, dependability, and flexibility in ad hoc networks

Abstract

Wireless ad-hoc networking is increasingly seen as critical part of ubiquitous self-configuring networking environments, including home and sensory networks and networks required to support ideas of pervasive computing. While basic principles of networking remain intact the large number of networked elements many of which exhibit mobility while being limited in power and other aspects introduces challenges not seen in traditional networks. The complexity of these future networks is further aggravated as increasing flora of applications exploit increasing diversity in of network and user equipment. Ad-hoc networking requires these devices to play a dual role of an end-system acting in its own interests and also the role of a router forwarding package on behalf of other devices. We foresee a wide range of operating environments from highly volatile - with rapidly moving mobiles and fluttering availability, to semi stable sensory environments - where node failures or external changes are the primary sources of network volatility. © IFIP International Federation for Information Processing 2003.