STM Journals Peer-reviewed research from Consortium e-Learning Network

Journal of Mobile Computing, Communications & Mobile Networks Review Article

An Investigative Study of Competition-Aware Incentive Mechanisms in Mobile Ad Hoc Networks

  1. Manas Kumar Yogi CSE Department Pragati Engineering College (A), Surampalem
  2. Nadiminti Sai Priya Satwika CSE Department Pragati Engineering College (A), Surampalem

Abstract

Mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) present a unique communication paradigm characterized by their decentralized and dynamic nature, where nodes rely on each other for packet forwarding and network maintenance. However, the inherent selfishness of individual nodes and resource constraints often leads to non-cooperative behaviors, significantly degrading network performance. This investigative study delves into the critical role of competition-aware incentive mechanisms in fostering sustainable cooperation within MANETs. Competition, a portmanteau of competition and cooperation, acknowledges that nodes can simultaneously compete for resources while collaborating for collective network benefits. We explore the theoretical underpinnings of competition in MANETs, primarily through the lens of game theory, examining models such as Stackelberg and bargaining games that capture the intricate interplay between competitive and cooperative strategies. The article reviews the evolution from traditional incentive mechanisms, which often focus solely on cooperation, to more sophisticated competition-aware designs that account for both aspects. Furthermore, we investigated the integration of emerging technologies, including blockchain and artificial intelligence, in developing robust and fair incentive structures. The study also analyzes the performance implications of these mechanisms on key network metrics such as throughput, latency, and energy efficiency. Finally, we discuss the prevailing challenges, such as privacy concerns and scalability issues, and outline promising research directions in this evolving field. This comprehensive analysis aims to provide a foundational understanding of competition-aware incentive mechanisms, highlighting their potential to enhance the resilience and efficiency of MANETs

Keywords

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