A cross-layer architecture for DiffServ in mobile ad-hoc networks

The delivery of service differentiation in mobile ad hoc networks presents a number of technical challenges because of the inherent constraints due to the dynamic nature of these environments, such as limited bandwidth and energy capacity. This paper proposes a cross-layer architecture for implementing DiffServ (CLAD) in IEEE 802.11 based mobile ad hoc networks. This provides differentiated services to four types of applications: conversation, streaming, interactive, and best-effort, by defining per hop behaviours (PHBs). Novel features of CLAD include a least busy routing protocol (LBRP) which is designed to discover the least busy routes and evenly distribute the network load; a hybrid signalling system which is used to dynamically monitor route states and to regulate adaptive real time applications; and an adaptive rate controller which controls traffic rate. Preliminary simulation results demonstrate that CLAD can provide efficient service differentiation in MANETs.