Multi-Objective Clustering Model for Named Data Networking in MANETs

Mobile Ad-hoc Networks (MANETs) are flexible, support diverse applications, and can handle a wide range of realistic device-to-device scenarios. They face several challenges, like mobility, node density, and energy limitations. Due to their caching capabilities and fast local data access, the Information-Centric Network is better suited to address MANET challenges. It aligns with the requirements of IoT applications, making it a promising solution. This study selected the NDN architecture because of its stable specifications compared to other ICN architectures. The study presents an NDN clustering model designed to improve scalability and adapt to rapid changes in dynamic networks while maintaining network performance. The researchers develop and evaluate Multi-Objective Clustering for NDN (MOC-NDN). MOC-NDN groups nodes into clusters based on distance, each with a designated head. The cluster heads are selected based on the principles of multi-objective clustering. Nodes within the cluster communicate via D2D links. When a node needs content outside its cluster, it requests it from the cluster head, which forwards the request to neighboring cluster heads. The results demonstrate that MOC-NDN outperforms traditional NDN. The model’s performance was assessed using key network metrics, including end-to-end delay, throughput, routing overhead, and packet loss, under varying mobility conditions and node densities. The results indicate that MOC-NDN further improves performance compared to traditional NDN, with an average reduction of 97.21% in end-to-end delay, 15.54% in routing overhead, and 75.63% in packet loss. These overall results confirm the efficiency of NDN networks and the advantages of clustering in mobile and dynamic environments. The MOC-NDN model is especially suitable for large, structured networks and complex applications requiring centralized coordination. The model presented in this paper will serve as a valuable reference for developers and researchers, facilitating MANET design and implementation, as NDN is expected to play a crucial role in the promising Internet of Things ecosystem.