Ad Hoc Networks

Abstract

This book covers the major design issues in ad hoc networks. It will equip the researchers in the field with the essential tools to attack the design of a complex ad hoc system, whether in standalone configurations like the 10,000 node battlefield networks or opportunistically connected to the Internet. The introductory chapter that follows will provide a definition and characterization of ad hoc networks, followed by an overview of the main applications. The design challenges at the various layers of the ad hoc network architecture are then reviewed, with particular emphasis on scalability and mobility. An urban grid scenario that captures the complexities of both standalone and “opportunistically extended” ad hoc designs is introduced. This scenario poses challenges at all the layers of the ad hoc protocol stack. It is thus the ideal framework to illustrate the impact and the key contributions of the various chapters in this book. We conclude with a mention of problems that lie ahead, for further probing by future researchers.