A Cross-Layer Protocol for Mobile Ad Hoc Network Based on Hexagonal Clustering and Hybrid MAC Access Approach

Abstract

Due to its flexible and convenient networking, Ad hoc net- works have been used in more and more scenarios. But, the features of mobility, constantly changing topologies and centerless architecture limit its applications. In order to improve the performance of Ad hoc, this paper proposes a cross-layer protocol for mobile Ad hoc network based on Hexagonal Clustering and Hybrid MAC Access (HCHMA) approach. Through the clustering algorithm, cluster heads are selected to form a backbone network for route discovery and establishment. And the MAC layer uses two different access mechanisms to ensure efficient transmission of routing packets and data packets. Benefiting from the above approaches, network overhead is greatly reduced and the through- put is improved. By doing simulations in the network simulator 2 (NS2) software, the HCHMA protocol shows better packet delivery rate, higher throughput and lower end-to-end delay compared with the Ad hoc On- demand Distance Vector Routing (AODV) protocol and the Optimized Link State Routing (OLSR) protocol.