Topics in ad hoc and sensor networks [guest editorial]

The Series on Ad Hoc and Sensor Networks of IEEE Communications Magazine started an interesting debate on research methodologies and approaches in the April 2007 issue. Theoretical research and simulation studies are fundamental for understanding the behavior of phenomena, and their relevance is even higher in such areas as wireless and mobile networking, where experimentation is not easy to realize. However, there is a need to conduct these studies in a very solid convincing way. In the past issue we discussed the importance of considering realistic scenarios, since otherwise the results may lead to conclusions that will not be confirmed in real experiments. In this issue we continue this discussion by presenting other related aspects, such as the role of information theory and simulation, as well as the introduction of novel approaches such as knowledge exploitation to coordinate mobile and wireless networks.