Performance Analysis of ERS Techniques for Next-Generation Opportunistic Networks

In next-generation networks, mobile devices are equipped with Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communication modules that allow them to interact, self-configure, and communicate with other mobile devices without relying on pre-installed fixed network infrastructure (the so-called opportunistic networks). The combination of opportunistic networks and Internet infrastructure creates unprecedented new capabilities and applications. However, this hybrid architecture also faces challenges, including performance, energy savings, delay, and security. Typical opportunistic network architecture is Mobile Ad hoc Networks (MANETs) and Flying Ad Hoc Networks (FANET). MANETs are a collection of mobile devices equipped with D2D modules to communicate directly with each other mobile nodes without relying on base stations or access point infrastructure. Flying Ad Hoc Networks (FANET), or Drones, are gaining popularity due to their cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and advanced capabilities. Due to the mobility nature of mobile nodes in opportunistic networks, the source nodes use the route discovery procedure to determine an optimal route to the destination node. Several improved ERS techniques have been proposed to enhance performance and reduce the power consumption of opportunistic networks. In this paper, we conduct a detailed analysis of the proposed varying of Expanding Ring Search (ERS) algorithms and consider the performance of these techniques. Experimental results show that the Enhanced BERS technique (EBERS) algorithm significantly improves the energy consumption compared to ERS-based algorithms in large network scales. Finally, we provide some recommendations to selecting suitable ERS techniques with different network scales.