A cross-layer architecture for DiffServ in mobile ad-hoc networks

The delivery of set-vice differentiation in mobile ad hoc networks presents a number of technical challenges because of the inherent constraints due to the dynamic nature of these environments, such as limited bandwidth and energy capacity. This paper proposes a Cross-Laver Architecture for implementing DiffServ (CLAD) in IEEE 802.11 based mobile ad hoc networks. This provides differentiated services to four types of applications: Conversation, Streaming, Interactive, and Best-effort, by defining Per Hop Behaviours (PHBs). Novel features of CLAD include a Least Busy Routing Protocol (LBRP) which is designed to discover the least busy routes and evenly distribute the net-work load; a hybrid Signalling system which is used to dynamically monitor route states and to regulate adaptive real time applications; and an adaptive rate controller which controls traffic-rate. Preliminarv simulation results demonstrate that CLAD can provide efficient set-vice differentiation in MANETs.