On IPv6 experimentation in wireless mobile ad hoc networks

Abstract

With the growing interest towards the Internet of Things IPv6-based mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) become a key enabling technology offering the possibility of automated, unsupervised network configuration and operation. Such a functionality calls for an accurate and reliable testing of the newly proposed solutions, which is challenging due to the dynamic, decentralized and ad hoc nature of MANETs. In this work selected topics are presented on performing IPv6 protocols experimentation in wireless, IPv6-only mobile ad hoc networks - including both simulation - and testbed-based evaluation. Based on the authors experience with the evaluation of the extended IPv6 Neighbor Discovery protocol (ND++) proposed during the course of research, the selection of an opensource simulation environment is presented and a comparison between simulation and emulation experimentation methods is provided. Benefits and drawbacks of both these methodologies for testing IPv6 solutions are depicted. Moreover, the important aspects of topology and mobility considerations are considered. Finally the authors propose a testing approach that would allow for a detailed and accurate evaluation by means of open-source, easily accessible and low-cost methodologies.