MANET stands for Mobile Ad Hoc Network. It is a type of wireless network that is self-configuring and decentralized. In a MANET, each device or node in the network is free to move independently in any direction, and as a result, the network’s topology may change rapidly and unpredictably. Here are some key characteristics of MANETs:

    • Self-Configuring: Nodes automatically join and leave the network as they move in and out of range of other nodes, without the need for a centralized control system.

 

    • Decentralized: There is no fixed infrastructure like routers or access points. Instead, each node functions as both a host and a router, forwarding data to other nodes.

 

    • Dynamic Topology: The network’s structure changes frequently due to the mobility of the nodes, requiring robust and adaptive routing protocols.

 

    • Scalability: MANETs can scale to accommodate a large number of nodes, but the complexity of maintaining the network increases with the number of nodes.

 

    Ad Hoc Communication: Nodes communicate directly with each other, and the communication path can involve multiple intermediate nodes, especially if the destination node is outside the direct communication range.

Applications of MANETs:

Military: Used for communication in battlefield environments where infrastructure is not feasible.
Disaster Recovery: Useful in emergency situations where existing communication networks are down.
Mobile Conferencing: Enables the creation of a temporary network for mobile users in a specific area.

Challenges:

Security: The decentralized nature of MANETs makes them more vulnerable to security threats.
Energy Efficiency: Mobile devices often rely on battery power, making energy-efficient routing protocols essential.
Scalability: Managing a large number of nodes can be complex and resource-intensive.

MANETs are a critical technology for situations where traditional network infrastructure is unavailable or impractical.