Enhanced Internet connectivity for hybrid ad hoc networks through adaptive gateway discovery

One of the key components affecting the overall performance of hybrid ad hoc networks is the algorithm used to discover and select Internet gateways. We have analytically modeled existing proposals (i.e., proactive, reactive and hybrid gateway discovery) showing that each of them is most suited only for a limited range of network parameters. We propose a new adaptive gateway discovery algorithm called "maximal benefit coverage" based on the dynamic adjustment of the scope of the gateway advertisement packets. We show, by simulation, that the ability of our proposed scheme to adapt to the changes in network conditions allows it to outperform existing alternative mechanisms over a variety of scenarios and mobility rates.