LEACH: Low-Energy Adaptive Clustering Hierarchy Protocol

In wireless sensor networks, clustering protocols play a vital role in network organization and management. The LEACH protocol efficiently partitions network nodes into distinct clusters, enabling systematic control and coordination of sensor nodes. This classic clustering approach features a straightforward implementation and high operational efficiency, making it widely adopted in practical applications. The protocol employs a randomized rotation of cluster heads to distribute energy consumption evenly across the network, typically implemented through probabilistic calculations that determine cluster head selection based on residual energy levels.

Within each cluster, communication follows a hierarchical structure where cluster heads aggregate data from member nodes before forwarding it to the base station. The protocol implementation often includes TDMA-based scheduling for intra-cluster communication and CSMA/CA for inter-cluster data transmission. LEACH demonstrates notable fault tolerance capabilities, maintaining network stability even when individual nodes fail, achieved through dynamic cluster reformation and adaptive routing mechanisms. The protocol's robustness and energy-efficient design have established it as an essential component in wireless sensor network architectures, particularly suitable for applications requiring prolonged network lifetime and scalable organization.

Key algorithmic components include cluster head election using threshold calculations (T(n) = p/(1-p*(r mod 1/p)) where p is the desired percentage of cluster heads and r is the current round number), and energy-aware routing that minimizes communication distance through localized cluster formation. The protocol's implementation typically involves periodic re-clustering phases to balance energy distribution across all sensor nodes.