An infrastructure-based network, such as a cellular network, uses fixed BS that are responsible for coordinating communications between mobile nodes. An ad hoc network consists of mobile nodes that communicate with each other using wireless medium without any fixed infrastructure. “Ad hoc” is a Latin word that means “for this purpose only”. An ad hoc network is a special network that is set up for a particular application.
A mobile ad hoc network (MANET) is a self-configuring network of mobile routers connected by wireless links that form an arbitrary topology. The routers are free to move randomly and organize themselves arbitrarily. The network’s wireless topology may change rapidly and unpredictably.
Why Use MANET?
- Ease of deployment,
- Speed of deployment,
- Flexible,
- Decreased dependence on infrastructure,
- Cost effective,
- Interoperability.
Characteristics:
- Decentralized,
- Self-organised,
- Self-deployed,
- Dynamic network topology,
- Bandwidth-constrained, variable capacity, asymmetric links.
