Combining cooperative link layer protocols with distributed routing protocols in mobile ad hoc networks – perspectives and performance analysis

In cooperative link layer protocols the use of relay nodes may increase the capacity of the radio links. The study in this paper investigates what (if any) performance gain may be passed onto the routing protocol of a mobile ad hoc network. Two popular routing protocols are considered, AODV and OLSR, as each provides a unique route acquisition mechanism. A distributed procedure to choose the relay node at the link layer is combined with the two routing protocols. Analysis via simulation confirms some expected (and perhaps some other less expected) benefits when using a cooperative link layer protocol in place of a non-cooperative one, e.g., improved delivery ratio, end-to-end delay, and reduced signaling overhead.