Performance Characterization and Comparative Study of DSR and OLSR Routing Protocols in Mobile Ad Hoc Networks

Abstract

This study investigates and compares the performance of two prominent routing protocols within mobile ad hoc networks under varying network densities and mobility scenarios. The evaluation focuses on key performance indicators such as packet throughput, reliability in packet delivery, and overall network delay. The simulation was carried out using a widely recognized network simulator, and the protocols were assessed under conditions with different numbers of nodes and movement speeds. The results show that one protocol significantly outperforms the other in terms of lower delay, higher packet delivery rate, and superior network organization. These findings indicate the importance of selecting the appropriate routing protocol based on network density, mobility, and performance requirements. Additionally, the study outlines potential areas for future work, including energy optimization and hybrid protocol development, to address the evolving needs of mobile ad hoc networks.