A Neighborhood Discovery Protocol (NHDP) Model for ns-3

This document describes a new simulation model of the Neighborhood Discovery Protocol (NHDP) for mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs), for the ns-3 discrete-event network simulator.NHDP is a component of MANET routing protocols such as Optimized Link State Routing (OLSR).Although these protocols were originally motivated by Wi-Fi-based mobile ad hoc networks, recently both protocols have been selected for use as a layer-3 routing solution for fifth-generation (5G) cellular multi-hop routing over sidelink.We provide an overview of the operation of NHDP and describe the scope and implementation of the ns-3 model.We present simulation results comparing the performance of ns-3's existing OLSR routing model in a mobile networking scenario with a modified OLSR model making use of the NHDP model, and highlight the performance similarities and differences.We show how the link quality feature of NHDP can be used to filter out weakly performing links to improve routing path selection.We conclude by outlining next steps for additional NHDP model features and towards a more complete set of updated mobile ad hoc routing protocols for ns-3.