A comparative study of routing protocols, AI, and passive optical networks in the evolution of mobile ad hoc networks (MANETS)

Abstract Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs) have gained significant attention in wireless communication due to their decentralized nature, flexibility, and adaptability. However, MANETs face challenges such as dynamic topologies, limited resources, and unpredictable mobility patterns, necessitating intelligent routing protocols for optimal performance. This research presents a comparative study of traditional MANET routing protocols and recent advancements incorporating Artificial Intelligence (AI). We analyze the improvements AI brings to routing efficiency by comparing AI-driven techniques with conventional methods. Additionally, the paper investigates the integration of Passive Optical Networks (PONs) with MANETs, focusing on how optical technologies can enhance network performance by providing high-capacity, low-latency backhaul links. These links could complement AI-based routing decisions, improving overall network stability and data transmission. The study highlights both the opportunities and challenges of merging AI with traditional routing protocols and PONs, offering insights into future research directions aimed at optimizing MANET performance. The synergy between AI and PONs may offer a promising solution to address the dynamic and resource-constrained nature of MANETs in real-world applications.