Analyzing VANET Performance in Urban Environments: A Comparative Analysis of Propagation Models with OLSR-Based Vehicular Networks through SUMO and NS3

In the realm of technological progress, vehicular communication plays a pivotal role in the context of contemporary urbanization. The efficacy of Vehicular Ad hoc Networks (VANETs) is predominantly influenced by routing protocols and propagation models. This study delves into the real-time impact of various propagation models on VANET performance, recognizing the dynamic and challenging nature of vehicular environments. The selection of an accurate propagation model is crucial for establishing reliable communication, especially in urban settings. This research assesses and compares the performance of widely used propagation models, including Free Space Path Loss (FSPL), ITU-R P.1411 Loss Model and Nakagami fading, within the context of an Optimized Link State Routing (OLSR) based VANET. The study considers diverse real-time traffic scenarios in the urban environment. Performance metrics such as Average Routing Throughput, Packet Delivery Ratio and End-to-End Delay are meticulously examined using both SUMO and NS3 platforms. Notably, the study underscores the limitations of a fixed propagation model and advocates for the dynamic adaptation of propagation models based on specific scenarios. The network parameter comparison highlights the better performance scenarios that are possible with the combination of the FSPL and ITU-R P.1411 propagation models with the OLSR protocol.