MATLAB Simulation of Enhanced AODV Routing Algorithm

AODV (Ad-hoc On-Demand Distance Vector) is a widely-used routing protocol for wireless ad-hoc networks. However, its conventional implementation may exhibit performance limitations in highly dynamic environments. To address this issue, researchers have proposed various enhanced algorithms, typically optimizing aspects such as route discovery mechanisms, maintenance protocols, or energy efficiency.

Simulating improved AODV algorithms in MATLAB requires establishing a realistic network model and comparing performance metrics before and after enhancements. Key improvement approaches include:

Route Discovery Optimization: Reducing control overhead through broadcast range limitations or probabilistic forwarding mechanisms. In MATLAB implementation, this can be achieved by modifying the route request (RREQ) flooding logic using functions that control transmission radius or implement random forwarding probabilities.

Load Balancing: Dynamically adjusting path selection strategies to avoid congested nodes. Code implementation involves maintaining node congestion metrics and incorporating them into the route selection algorithm through weighted cost functions.

Energy Awareness: Optimizing routing decisions based on remaining node battery levels to extend network lifetime. This requires integrating energy monitoring variables into the routing table structure and modifying the route metric calculation to prioritize energy-efficient paths.

Critical performance metrics for simulation analysis include packet delivery ratio, end-to-end delay, and control overhead. MATLAB provides tools for implementing node mobility models (using random waypoint or Gauss-Markov models), simulating link breakages through event-driven programming, and visualizing data statistics with plotting functions. When papers specify particular enhancement strategies (such as hybrid routing metrics or cross-layer designs), additional analysis should focus on parameter adjustment logic in the simulation implementation, including how to configure weighting factors and interface different protocol layers through callback functions.