Network management system for tactical mobile ad hoc network segments

Abstract

Mobile Ad Hoc Networking (MANET) technologies are highly desirable in tactical environments because they are able to communicate with neighboring devices over one or more hops in order to extend connectivity to areas where a fixed infrastructure is not available or is not possible. There are many factors which can influence the performance and reliability of a MANET. Communications links within the MANET are continuously fluctuating due to device location, power, or environmental factors. Devices within the MANET can enter the network and then disappear due to the devices losing connectivity because of their physical location relative to other nodes within the network. A network management system (NMS) that can provide for MANET administration in both simulation-based and real-time operational environments provides additional value for this network. The objectives for this network management system is to allow users to predict, monitor, and control network behavior, this specifically includes viewing and remotely managing variables such as node status, node location, attached equipment, channel selection, frequencies, error rates, and network utilization.