Performance evaluation of RODEO: Route degradation optimization for the multi-hop dynamic spectrum access networks

Dynamic spectrum access (DSA) enabled via cognitive radios (CR) is an emerging paradigm towards the achievement of better spectrum utilization, extended coverage and ubiquitous connectivity for the wireless end-users. The complexity of the DSA framework and persistent disruption due to primary-secondary spectrum etiquette and dynamic spectrum availability raise serious routing challenges. We propose and evaluate RODEO, a novel route optimization method, based on the concept of route degradation factor (RDF). RODEO bases the RDF calculation not only on the shortest path and cumulative route delay concept but more importantly on PU profiling (channel disruption probabilities due to PU arrival) as well as link redundancy. In order to exploit the best of reactive and proactive routing paradigms, RODEO takes a hybrid approach towards destination discovery. RODEO leverages proactive routing principles in order to maintain robust multi-hop paths in the areas of the network least affected by PU arrival. Conversely, in a reactive manner it discovers paths on parts of the network most impacted by PU arrival. Performance evaluations are carried out on different types of network topologies in order to show how route optimization based on minimized RDF through an adjustable REN affects route selection and maintenance process.