A Virtual Ad Hoc Routing Algorithm for MANETs

Mobile self-organising ad hoc networks (MANETs) are seen as the future in distributed and ad hoc networking. In addition to the longstanding problems of wireless systems such as overhead costs, bandwidth scarcity, overloading and link degradation, MANETs have to grapple with routing protocols, caching protocols and energy conversion algorithms, along with the associated trade-offs. Node mobility creates high overheads with frequent routing protocols rapidly depleting battery energy. There is a need to develop energy aware and efficient routing protocols that still respond sensitively to node mobility. In this paper we float the concept of a virtual multi- hop ad hoc routing algorithm for MANETs. The concept clearly indicates a niche area for further research into increasing energy conservation without sacrificing performance, careful section of casting methods, and efficient use of bandwidth.