A Stable K-hop clustering algorithm for routing in mobile ad hoc networks

Flat routing protocols proposed for MANETs suffer from scalability problem. For this purpose, clustering schemes are proposed to improve the efficiency of routing by organizing the MANET into a hierarchical structure. In this context, we propose SKCA, a stable K-hop clustering algorithm with the view to provide a stable cluster topology and reduce the control overhead. The algorithm proposes a new maintenance function that attempts to reduce cluster topology changes and increases cluster lifetime. Besides, SKCA introduces a novel two-round cluster-head election that reduces the diffusion of the cluster information in the K-hop neighborhood. Using simulation, the performances of SKCA is compared to KCMM algorithm. Also, we study the performances of a cluster-based link state routing protocol in presence of our clustering algorithm SKCA.