On reducing packet latencies in ad hoc networks

The ad hoc on-demand distance vector (AODV) is an on-demand routing protocol designed specifically for mobile, ad hoc networks. But the packet latencies with AODV can be very high, >100 ms on average, especially when the network load is low and node mobility is high. To mitigate this effect, we have enhanced AODV with a proactive technique, which lets receiver nodes broadcast periodic 'beacons' throughout the network to keep routing entries in other nodes current. Using simulations we show that beacons reduce the packet latencies by a factor of 2-3. The routing packets transmitted are also reduced as the beacons obviate the need for some route discovery processes.