Routing Strategies in Wireless Sensor Networks: A Relative Analysis

Abstract

Introduction: Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) rely on decentralized nodes to monitor environmental parameters such as temperature, pressure, and sound. The effectiveness of these networks hinges on routing protocols capable of managing dynamic topologies, energy limitations, and bandwidth constraints. This study conducts a systematic evaluation of five prominent WSN routing protocols—LEACH, TORA, DSR, DSDV, and AODV—to assess their efficacy under diverse network configurations. The analysis focuses on critical performance indicators, including Packet Delivery Ratio (PDR), throughput, end-to-end delay, and energy consumption, aiming to delineate optimal use cases for each protocolObjectives: Aim of this research is to systematically compare the performance achievement of DSR ,TORA, LEACH, , AODV and DSDV routing protocols for WSN. The objective is to evaluate the performance of the selected protocols using key metrics like throughput, end-to- end delay, packet delivery ratio and energy consumption. It also analyze protocol behavior under different network sizes, node mobility patterns.Methods: A simulation-driven approach was implemented using the NS2 network simulator, with scenarios varying in node density, mobility patterns, traffic load, and energy parameters. Each protocol was rigorously tested under standardized conditions, with results averaged across multiple iterations to ensure statistical validity. Cross-referencing with prior studies further validated the findings.Results: Key results reveal that AODV and DSR outperform others in dynamic environments, achieving higher PDR and adaptability to topology changes. DSDV maintains reliability in stable, small-scale networks but degrades with increased mobility or scale. LEACH exhibits superior energy conservation and minimal latency, aligning with sensor networks prioritizing longevity, though its hierarchical structure limits versatility in general ad hoc settings. TORA demonstrates rapid adaptation to link failures but faces instability in dense networks.Conclusions: These findings underscore the necessity of context-specific protocol deployment. LEACH is ideal for energy-sensitive deployments, AODV and DSR for high- mobility scenarios requiring robust data delivery, and DSDV for static, small-scale networks. The research advocates for hybrid or adaptive routing strategies to address the heterogeneous demands of modern WSN applications.