Reactive routing evaluation using modified 802.11a with realistic vehicular mobility

Realistic mobility dynamics and underlying PHY/MAC layer implementation affect real deployment of routing protocols in vehicular ad hoc network (VANET). Currently, dedicated short range communication devices are using wireless access in vehicular environment (WAVE) mode of operation, but now IEEE is standardizing 802.11p WAVE. This work presents an in-depth simulation-based analysis of two reactive routing protocols, i.e., dynamic source routing (DSR) and ad hoc on-demand distance vector (AODV) with modified IEEE 802.11a PHY/MAC layers (comparable to 802.11p) in modified VANET mobility models (freeway, stop sign, and traffic sign) in terms of load, throughput, delay, number of hops, and retransmission attempts. Results obtained using OPNET simulator show that in urban/highway mobility scenarios, AODV’s performance with forthcoming 802.11p at high bit rate would be better than DSR in terms of high throughput, less delay, and retransmission attempts. Moreover, this comprehensive evaluation will assist to address challenges associated with future deployment of routing protocols integrated upon devices with upcoming IEEE 802.11p, concerning specific macro-/micro-mobility scenarios.