A Distributed Intelligent Broadcasting Protocol for Mobile Ad Hoc Networks

The control and routing performances of mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) depend upon the efficiency of the network-wide broadcasting schemes that are in place. Ad hoc networks are often characterized by poor infrastructure quality, limited resources, dynamic variation and a need for mobility; therefore, ease of deployment, adaptability and potential for energy-savings are the primary drivers considered in the design of typical broadcasting schemes. This paper proposes a distributed intelligent broadcasting protocol (DIBP) that is capable of dynamically determining the broadcasting nodes in a MANET, based upon the distribution of network nodes. This eliminates the need for active network monitoring and periodical maintenance is not required. In addition, the distributed intelligent broadcasting protocol employs an adjustable parameter for determining the broadcasting node, broadcasting timing and the number of broadcasting nodes. This parameter can be changed dynamically based on different operational requirements; such as energy savings, hop count, network delay and other similar targets. Simulations of networks employing the protocol yield results showing that the DIBP performs better in terms of delivery delay, number of rebroadcast nodes, and delivery ratio.