MANET (Mobile Ad Hoc Network)

MANET stands for "Mobile Ad Hoc Network." A MANET is a type of ad hoc network that can change locations and configure itself on the fly. Because MANETS are mobile, they use wireless connections to connect to various networks. This can be a standard Wi-Fi connection, or another medium, such as a cellular or satellite transmission.
                  
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A MANET (Mobile Ad Hoc Network) consists of a collection of mobile nodes communicating in a multi-hop way without any fixed infrastructure such as access points or base stations. 
Some MANETs are restricted to a local area of wireless devices (such as a group of laptop computers), while others may be connected to the Internet. For example, A VANET (Vehicular Ad Hoc Network), is a type of MANET that allows vehicles to communicate with roadside equipment. While the vehicles may not have a direct Internet connection, the wireless roadside equipment may be connected to the Internet, allowing data from the vehicles to be sent over the Internet. The vehicle data may be used to measure traffic conditions or keep track of trucking fleets. Because of the dynamic nature of MANETs, they are typically not very secure, so it is important to be cautious what data is sent over a MANET.



Characteristics of MANET 

• No centralized control & administration
• Self-organizing and self-restoring
• Transmission through multiple hops
• Frequent link breakage and change of network topology

Applications of MANET 

• Battlefield communication 
• Sensor networks 
• Personal area networking using PDAs, laptops and handphones, etc 
• Search-and-rescue 
• Cellular network and wireless Hot Spot extension