Dynamic Advanced Node Selection For Wireless Sensor Networks For Improved Network Life And Packet Transmission

Battery power depletion has been a major constraint towards exploring the potentials of wireless sensor networks (WSNs). A plethora of research work has mainly focused on WSN battery power optimization. However, an efficient cluster head election process is crucial to a WSN lifetime. In this regard, this paper introduces a novel modified low energy adaptive clustering hierarchy protocol (LEACH) algorithm to improve network life and connectivity. In particular, this paper presents a method by which the election process of cluster heads is modified suitably to allow for flexibility in the criteria for election, based on the current energy state of the network rather than requiring a fixed amount of energy at all times for election. Simulation result showed that increasing the number of nodes does not necessarily ensure higher reliability, and that a relationship exists between the number of nodes and the network life. Additionally, the modified LEACH algorithm gave a higher packet transmission thereby improving network connectivity. (C) 2021 Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of African Institute of Mathematical Sciences / Next Einstein Initiative.