INTRODUCTION

An wireless ad hoc network is a decentralized type of wireless network that connects several devices wirelessly without typical network infrastructure. As the network is ad hoc, it does not require router or access point. Central servers are not needed as it accesses the resources directly through peer- to- peer (P2P) wireless connection. This network is self configuring so that it can change their links with other devices in the network dynamically.

Fig 1 : Wireless ad hoc network

WHY DO WE NEED WANET

WANET is important in certain cases.

  • Military conflict
  • Natural disaster

Here is an example of military conflict where the infrastructure gets destroyed. Communication is necessary between military devices so that WANET is fitted to the battle tanks which makes the communication and the attack effective.

Fig 2 : military application

In case of a natural disaster rescue operation becomes easier with WANET in place.

FEATURES OF WIRELESS AD HOC NETWORK

  • It requires only low power consumption and low levels of physical security.
  • It does not require fixed infrastructures to work.
  • Network nodes are randomly deployed to form the wireless network.

TYPES OF WANET

Wireless ad hoc network type depends on the wireless equipment capabilities , physical environment and purpose of the communication.

  • MANET

MANET is a mobile ad hoc network which directly connects mobile devices with one another without an infrastructure. It is sometimes referred to as ‘spontaneous network’ or ‘on-the-fly’ .

Fig 3 : Mobile ad hoc network
  • IMANET

IMANET is an internet based mobile ad hoc network support internal protocol and user Datagram protocol. Each connected device is employed with network layer routing protocols to link the mobile nodes and set up distributed routes automatically.

  • SPAN

SPAN refers to smartphone ad hoc network where hardware like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and software protocols built a smartphone operating system are employed to create P2P network without relying on routers or access points.

  • VANET

VANET is a vehicular ad hoc network in which the communication between vehicles and roadside equipments. Application of VANET includes safety, prevention of collisions, blind crossing, real time traffic condition monitoring and providing internet connectivity to the vehicles.

Fig 4 : Vehicular ad hoc network

ADVANTAGES OF WIRELESS AD HOC NETWORK

  • Ad hoc networks are easy to configure.
  • It offers an effective way to communicate with nearby devices.
  • They are often secured to protect against attacks.
  • Ad hoc network linking small number of devices are more practical than a traditional based network.
  • These networks provide low-cost way of client-to-client communication.

DISADVANTAGES OF WIRELESS AD HOC NETWORK

  • Some Wi-Fi enabled technology don’t support ad hoc mode because those networks only connect in infrastructure mode by default.
  • For setting up a larger network, infrastructure mode is better than ad hoc network.
  • Wireless ad hoc network cannot bridge to the internet without installing a special performing network.

APLLICATIONS OF WIRELESS AD HOC NETWORK

  • In crisis condition, it can be used to send emergency signals.
  • Medical Application –It can be used to monitor patient.
  • Environmental Application –It can be used to check weather condition, forest fire, tsunami etc.
  • Useful in communication among a group of soldiers for tactical operations.
  • Ad hoc is used in search of rescue operations, crowd control and commando operations.