Scenario-oriented ad hoc networks simulation with mobility models

Unlike fixed cell-based wireless networks, the infrastructure topology of MANETs is constantly and some times rapidly changing. This characteristic has created the need to develop a new set of routing protocols for MANETs, which in turn have to be tested and evaluated. Simulation is a widely used tool in evaluating the performance of networks under different conditions. It is necessary that the simulation scenarios reassemble the actual conditions under which the networks operate and for military application it is important that realistic mobility models be employed. The topology, the size and the connectivity of the network are the most important elements affecting the performance of routing protocols in traditional wired networks. The case of MANETs, however, involves more parameters, and poses new challenges to the simulation. This paper compares the performance of three routing algorithms under three different mobility patterns.