Toward Robust and Scalable Wireless Ad Hoc Networks: An Approach to Adaptive Routing and Security

Wireless ad hoc networks include Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs), Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs), Cognitive Radio Networks (CRNs), and Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs). The advantages of these networks have made them fundamental in communication technologies, including flexibility and scalability in an infrastructure-independent system. Such networks will be addressed on methodologies and innovation based on the routing protocols, particularly adaptation and security; methodologies include approaches such as genetic algorithms, game theory, fuzzy logic, hybrid SDN architectures, and covert communication strategies. Key aspects that may be analyzed are dynamic topology adaptation, energy efficiency, fault detection, and resistance to security threats including collusion and interference. The review also identifies gaps in the literature and some fundamental areas that require research, such as multi-layered security models, adaptive energy-efficient protocols, and scalability under high-density network conditions. Last but not least, we shall propose future research directions to address the unresolved challenges in creating secure, resilient, and efficient ad hoc network protocols.