An Adaptive Network Allocation Vector for IEEE 802.11-based Multi-hop Networks

Performance of multi-hop ad hoc networks is highly affected by the hidden and exposed node problems. The RTS/CTS handshaking protocol used in the IEEE 802.11 standard was designed to solve the hidden node problem; however it was not successful in thoroughly eradicating the problem. We claim that it is sometimes possible to earn more throughput by controlling or even wisely creating this phenomenon. We suggest a solution to improve the throughput in IEEE 802.11-based multi-hop ad hoc networks by modifying the NAV mechanism. In our approach every node controls the packet transmission decision-making through a set of fuzzy-like rules which are based on the node queue level and environment variables. Simulation results show that our approach increases the overall throughput of the network in multi-hop scenarios.