Advancements in Routing Algorithm Techniques for Wireless Sensor Networks

Abstract

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are widely utilized across various applications due to their ability to monitor and transmit data. Despite their broad usage, WSNs face significant challenges in efficiently conveying data between sensor nodes. Routing algorithms have been specifically developed to address these challenges within WSNs, and this paper explores several of these protocols. WSNs share similarities with ad hoc networks as both rely on hop-to-hop routing mechanisms. Consequently, many protocols originally designed for ad hoc networks are also applied in sensor network applications. However, sensor nodes often lack the capabilities to fully support these protocols without modifications. This paper focuses on the Angle-Direction-Based Source Routing (ADSR) protocol, specifically developed for WSNs. ADSR is derived from the Dynamic Source Routing (DSR) protocol, initially created for Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs). By implementing certain modifications, DSR has been adapted to meet the unique requirements of WSNs. The primary objective of this paper is to demonstrate that protocols developed for MANETs can be effectively utilized in WSNs through appropriate adaptations. The ADSR protocol exemplifies how an angle-based mechanism can enhance routing efficiency in WSNs, suggesting that similar adaptations can be applied to other MANET protocols for improved performance in sensor networks.