Evaluating Disaster-Ready Communication Networks: A Real-World Testbed Using Raspberry Pi

In disaster scenarios, maintaining robust and reliable communication networks is critical for effective response and coordination. Traditional communication infrastructures are often compromised due to physical damage or overwhelming demand, highlighting the need for alternative solutions. This study evaluates the performance of disaster-ready communication networks through the deployment of a Mobile Ad-Hoc Network (MANET) testbed using Raspberry Pi devices. By establishing a real-world testbed, this research provides insights into key performance metrics, including end-to-end delay, throughput, packet delivery ratio (PDR), and network overhead under various scenarios, such as static, mobile, and variable load conditions. The findings underscore the practical challenges and opportunities in deploying MANETs for disaster management, offering a foundation for enhancing network reliability and efficiency in critical situations. This study contributes to the field of disaster management by demonstrating the feasibility of using cost-effective hardware to evaluate communication networks in real-world environments, bridging the gap between simulation and practical application.