On the implementation feasibility of reputation techniques for cooperative mobile ad-hoc networks

MCN-MR (Multi-hop Cellular Network - Mobile Relay) is envisioned as a new technology to face up the need for transmission rate homogeneity in future high speed Beyond 3G networks. To achieve its objectives, MCN-MR networks need to overcome the damaging effects that selfish nodes refusing to relay packets can have on the overall multi-hop connectivity. In this context, this paper evaluates the use of reputation based protocols to counteract packet dropping attacks through the watchdog detection technique. In particular, this paper analyzes the performance and operation of reputation techniques, including their capacity to detect selfish nodes, under realistic operation conditions. This study will provide valuable input to the optimization of reputation techniques to be used in future MCN-MR networks.