Analysis and Enhancements of Leader Elections algorithms in Mobile Ad Hoc Networks

Mobile Ad Hoc networks (MANET), distinct from traditional distributed systems, are dynamic and self-organizing networks. MANET requires a leader to coordinate and organize tasks. The challenge is to have the right election algorithm that chooses the right leader based on various factors in MANET. In this paper, we analyze four leader election algorithms used in mobile Ad Hoc Networks. Factors considered in our analysis are time complexity, message complexity, assumptions considered, fault tolerance and timing model. Our proposed enhancements include recovered nodes inquiring about the current leader and the use of candidates during election to reduce the overhead of starting a new election session. In addition, better election criteria specific to MANET, such as battery life and signal strength, are proposed. Our evaluation and discussion shows that the proposed enhancements are effective. The analysis can be used as a reference for system designers in choosing the right election algorithm for MANET.