A scenario-based performance evaluation of multicast routing protocols for ad hoc networks

Current ad hoc multicast routing protocols have been designed to build and maintain a tree or mesh in the face of a mobile environment, with fast reaction to network changes in order to minimize packet loss. However, the performance of these protocols has not been adequately examined under realistic scenarios. Existing performance studies generally use a single, simple mobility model, with low density and often very low traffic rates. We explore the performance of ad hoc multicast routing protocols under scenarios that include realistic mobility patterns, high density and high traffic load. We use these scenarios to identify cases where existing protocols can improve their performance. Based on our observations, we make a series of recommendations for designers of multicast protocols.