MOBILE AD-HOC NETWORKS (MANETS) : AN AFFORDABLE TECHNOLOGY FOR EASY ACCESS TO INTERNET

Ad-hoc network topology applies to reconfigurable networks that can operate without the need for a fixed infrastructure. Such a topology is suitable for rapid deployment of a wireless network in a mobile (or) fixed environment. Applications for voice and data can be run on these networks. Mobile ad-hoc networks (MANET) technology is quite an affordable technology for an easy access to internet by the people of rural and remote area where there is no availability of any network of fixed infrastructure wireless technologies like G.S.M ( or ) C.D.M.A.

The rapid development of wireless digital communication technology and the corresponding network software created new horizons for communication among the connected society. Mobile ad-hoc networks can operate in a stand alone fashion or could possibly be connected to a larger network such as INTERNET. The integration of wireless ad-hoc networks into operator environments is currently a hot topic. Users can be attracted towards ad-hoc networks by a variety of services that it can provide or the cost advantages that it can bring to them.
Ad-hoc networks work on the principle of distributed control. There is no centralised control for such networks. A temporary network can be established as and when needed and dismantled when the purpose is over.

Mobile ad-hoc network (MANET) is an autonomous system of mobile nodes (cell phones like) connected by wireless links. Each node in this system can operate as an end system and a router to pass on the messages for all other nodes in the network. Since the nodes are mobile, the network topology may change rapidly. As the network is a decentralised network, functions like discovering the near-by nodes and routing the messages should be performed by the nodes, themselves. Eventhough the design of protocols to meet such a network is of a little complex in nature, it is worth to do so because of the facilities that the system offering to its users. By adopting suitable algorithms, we can achieve parameters like preservation of security, latency, reliability, intentional jamming, recovery from failure of the network. Thus, self organisation is the essence of these systems.

Mobile ad-hoc network (MANET) technology is a boon to rural, remote, underprivileged and poor people to increase their income and life-style with an easy access to the information on the INTERNET that too within an affordable cost. An attempt is made to discuss various issues in these regards, in this paper.