To simulate a Mesh Topology in OMNeT++ has needs to generate a network in which each node is linked to several other nodes that permits the data to be transmitted via the multiple paths. This configuration is usually utilized in wireless sensor network, ad-hoc networks, or mesh networks to deliver high redundancy and fault tolerance.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to simulate a mesh topology in OMNeT++ using the INET framework:
Steps to Simulate a Mesh Topology in OMNeT++
- Install OMNeT++ and INET Framework:
Make sure that we have OMNeT++ and the INET framework installed, as INET deliver numerous network protocol models and node types that will simplify the creation of mesh networks.
- Download and install OMNeT++.
- Download and install the INET Framework.
- Define the Mesh Topology in NED File:
A mesh topology contains of multiple nodes, each associated to other nodes in the network. We can physically describe the connections among nodes, or we can utilize parameters to automatically make the mesh connections.
Here’s an example NED file defining a basic mesh network:
network MeshTopology
{
parameters:
int numNodes = default(6); // Number of nodes in the mesh network
submodules:
// Define the nodes in the network
node[numNodes]: <MeshNodeType> {
@display(“p=100+200*i,200”); // Set position of nodes
}
connections allowunconnected:
// Connect each node to its neighbors
for i=0..numNodes-2 {
for j=i+1..numNodes-1 {
node[i].ethg++ <–> Eth100M <–> node[j].ethg++;
}
}
}
In this example:
- node[numNodes] signifies the nodes in the mesh network.
- The for loop associates each node to other nodes in the mesh, make sure full or partial connectivity.
- ethg++ is the Ethernet gate for each node, and Eth100M signifies the Ethernet link among them with a bandwidth of 100 Mbps.
- Create Node Types in NED:
Define the types of nodes that need to contain in the mesh network. we can utilize StandardHost from the INET framework or generate custom node types.
Example:
import inet.node.inet.StandardHost;
module MeshNodeType extends StandardHost
{
// Each node will act as a mesh node
parameters:
@display(“i=device/laptop”); // Display icon for nodes
}
In this case, each node will act as a mesh node, and we can customize the behaviour by adding application layers, like TCP or UDP communication.
- Configure INI File:
The omnetpp.ini file describes simulation metrics such as the number of nodes, traffic patterns, and mobility. We can also set up the mesh routing protocols in this file.
Example omnetpp.ini configuration:
network = MeshTopology
sim-time-limit = 100s # Simulation time
*.numNodes = 6 # Number of nodes in the mesh network
# Configuring TCP or UDP application for nodes
*.node[*].app[0].typename = “TcpBasicClientApp”
*.node[*].app[0].destAddress = “node[5]” # Node 5 will act as a server
*.node[*].app[0].connectAddress = “node[0]” # Node 0 sends to node 5
# Configure routing
*.node[*].hasTcp = true # Enable TCP for nodes
*.node[*].hasUdp = true # Enable UDP if needed
- Mesh Routing Protocol:
We can utilize numerous routing protocols to mimic a mesh network. The INET framework supports various routing protocols, like AODV (Ad hoc On-Demand Distance Vector) and OLSR (Optimized Link State Routing).
Here’s an instance of set up an AODV in the INI file:
# Enable AODV routing protocol for each node in the mesh network
*.node[*].hasNetworkLayer = true
*.node[*].ipv4.routingProtocol = “Aodv”
*.node[*].aodv.activeRouteTimeout = 5s
Alternatively, for OLSR:
*.node[*].ipv4.routingProtocol = “Olsr”
*.node[*].olsr.interfaceTableModule = “^.interfaceTable”
*.node[*].olsr.routingTableModule = “^.routingTable”
- Add Traffic to the Network:
To simulate communication in the mesh network, we can add traffic generators, like UdpBasicApp or TcpApp, to create data flows among nodes.
Example of configuring traffic in the INI file:
*.node[0].app[0].typename = “UdpBasicApp”
*.node[0].app[0].destAddresses = “node[1]” # Node 0 sends packets to node 1
*.node[0].app[0].startTime = 1s
*.node[0].app[0].stopTime = 100s
*.node[0].app[0].packetLength = 1024B
*.node[0].app[0].sendInterval = exponential(1s)
- Run the Simulation:
Compile the project and execute the simulation in OMNeT++. Utilize Qtenv to envision the mesh topology and track on how packets are transmitted among nodes. We need to track network parameters such as throughput, packet delivery ratio, and delay.
- Analyse Results:
OMNeT++ creates statistics that can be utilized to evaluate network performance. Utilize the Scave tool to envision the parameters like:
- Throughput: The amount of data transmitted successfully.
- Latency: The time it takes for packets to traverse the network.
- Packet Loss: The percentage of lost packets.
We can generate these outcomes using Plove or export the data for further evaluation.
Advanced Features for Mesh Topology Simulation:
- Mobility Models:
- If we need to mimic mobile nodes in a mesh network, utilize mobility models such as RandomWaypointMobility or GaussMarkovMobility from the INET framework.
Example:
*.node[*].mobility.typename = “RandomWaypointMobility”
*.node[*].mobility.speed = uniform(1mps, 10mps)
- Energy Models:
- To replicate energy consumption in wireless mesh networks, utilize energy models from the INET framework to monitor battery life and energy consumption of nodes.
- Performance Optimization:
- We can test with different routing techniques such as AODV, DSR, and OLSR and measure their performance in the mesh network using OMNeT++ statistics.
Summary:
- Define the Topology: Utilize NED to generate a mesh network with associated nodes.
- Use Routing Protocols: implement mesh routing protocols such as AODV or OLSR to route traffic resourcefully.
- Simulate Traffic: Incorporate traffic patterns using UDP or TCP applications.
- Analyse the Performance: Evaluate network performance by measuring the parameters such as throughput, delay, and packet loss.
In this setup simulation, we clearly understood the concepts and ideas on how to simulate and visualized the results for mesh topology by using OMNET++ tools and it is usually utilized for high redundancy and fault tolerance in wireless networks. We plan to deliver more information regarding this process in further analysis.
Keep connected with phdprime.com for the best simulation of Mesh Topology Projects using the OMNeT++ tool, tailored to your project requirements. We provide customized comparison analyses to meet your needs. Additionally, receive expert configuration guidance on wireless sensor networks, ad-hoc networks, or mesh networks for your projects. We offer top project ideas and topics based on your areas of interest.
