An efficient routing protocol for FANET based on hybrid optimization algorithm

FANET is an ad hoc network that facilitates communication using wireless technology. The nodes are capable of retrieving data (including multimedia) from their respective data sources. The major challenge in a FANET is the high power consumption of the nodes within the network range. Research is underway to devise possible solutions to enable the flying nodes to consume minimal power. The network's cost and performance rely on the energy consumption capabilities of each flying node. The nodes deployed in a FANET are expected to work for a longer duration for managing the cost overheads. Efficient routing is another essential factor that helps in improving the throughput of a FANET. We have proposed a routing protocol for FANETs, which focuses on efficiently routing information to the destination node. It works towards the enhancement of the QoS and QoE metrics. It also helps in minimizing the data loss incurred during a transmission. A Chaotic Artificial Algae Algorithm is deployed to cluster the network for better management of the nodes. This is duly supported by a Dragonfly algorithm, which helps in selecting a perfect cluster head for each cluster. This algorithm is also useful in supporting the transmission between the clusters in terms of routing and also assists in selecting the next optimal node. The proposed technique is compared with other existing techniques using a network simulator (NS-2). The results show that the proposed technique is capable of maintaining the QoS and the QoE standards and also helps the nodes to conserve their power without compromising on the performance.