Optimizing Parameters of a Mobile Ad Hoc Network Protocol with a Genetic Algorithm

About this manual

The paper presents a method for selecting values of protocol parameters in mobile ad hoc networks using a genetic algorithm. It discusses the challenges of manual tuning, the discrete and rugged nature of the search space, and why stochastic methods like genetic algorithms are suitable.

The authors describe their implementation, including representation of parameters as real‑valued chromosomes, mutation and crossover operators, and the use of OPNET Modeler for simulation. Experimental results on a DARPA/Army demonstration dataset and synthetic scenarios show that the automated approach outperforms manual tuning in terms of dropped packets and transmission delay.

What's inside

• Abstract
• Introduction
• Protocol and Parameters
• Optimization Algorithm
• Experiments
• Datasets
• Experimental Procedure
• Results and Analysis

Frequently asked questions

What optimization algorithm is used to tune the protocol parameters?

A genetic algorithm is employed to automatically select parameter values.

Which simulation tool is used for evaluating parameter sets?

The simulations are performed with OPNET Modeler and its Wireless Module.

What performance metrics are combined into the objective function?

Dropped packets and transmission delay are weighted and summed to form the score.