Opportunistic Networks: An Empirical Research of Routing Protocols and Mobility Models

Abstract Opportunistic Networks (OppNets) are a sub-part of DTN but are quite different from DTN. OppNets do not need any end to end path between the nodes, as they forward the message in the store-carry-forward method. Due to the absence of an end to end path, nodes forwarding messages may face a delay. The nodes have zero or partial information about its neighboring node due to which uncertainty arises. OppNets are infrastructure-less networks, so they can be implemented in such situation where human reach is not possible. Due to these features, they have gained much interest in researches. OppNets work well when designed in an efficient manner. The two parameters to design a good OppNet are Mobility Model and Routing Protocols. Mobility models define the pattern of movement of the nodes and the routing protocols define the best, shortest, and efficient path so that a node can reach its destination in the least time possible. Proper selection of the mobility model and routing protocol is crucial in designing an efficient routing protocol. There have been many mobility models and routing protocols defined till date, and this paper has designed and identified the efficient models.