Resource Biased Path Selection in Heterogeneous Mobile Networks

In wireless ad hoc networks heterogeneity is inherent; each node hasdifferent characteristics, resources and purpose. Current ad hocrouting protocols do not take node heterogeneity into account whenmaking routing decisions; they consider each node identical incapabilities. We propose a simple way to modify the route discoveryphase of an on-demand routing protocol to select the \"best\" route,considering heterogeneity. The Ad hoc On-Demand Distance Vector (AODV)routing protocol is modified and the performance validated in both atestbed and simulation. It is shown that by considering heterogeneityduring route discovery, paths that contain more capable nodes areutilized, thereby avoiding resource-poor nodes.