TCP performance over mobile ad hoc networks

Xiang Chen, Hongqiang Zhai, Jianfeng Wang, Yuguang Fang

Research output: Journal Publications and ReviewsRGC 21 - Publication in refereed journalpeer-review

62 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

TCP is a transport protocol that guarantees reliable ordered delivery of data packets over wired networks. Although it is well tuned for wired networks, TCP performs poorly in mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs). This is because TCP's implicit assumption that any packet loss is due to congestion is invalid in mobile ad hoc networks where wireless channel errors, link contention, mobility and multipath routing may significantly corrupt or disorder packet delivery. If TCP misinterprets such losses as congestion and consequently invokes congestion control procedures, it will suffer from performance degradation and unfairness. To understand TCP behaviour and improve the TCP performance over multi-hop ad hoc networks, considerable research has been carried out. As the research in this area is still active and many problems are still wide open, an in-depth and timely survey is needed. In this paper, the challenges imposed on the standard TCP in the wireless ad hoc network environment are first identified. Then some existing solutions are discussed according to their design philosophy. Finally, some suggestions regarding future research issues are presented.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)129-134
JournalCanadian Journal of Electrical and Computer Engineering
Volume29
Issue number1-2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jan 2004
Externally publishedYes

Bibliographical note

Publication details (e.g. title, author(s), publication statuses and dates) are captured on an “AS IS” and “AS AVAILABLE” basis at the time of record harvesting from the data source. Suggestions for further amendments or supplementary information can be sent to [email protected].

Research Keywords

  • Congestion control
  • Mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs)
  • TCP

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