Trust and localization adaptive optimized routing (TLAOR) in MANET

The absence of central infrastructure and the mobility of nodes in mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) pose challenges in maintaining reliable, secure, and energy-efficient communication. To address these, we propose a novel Trust and Localization Adaptive Optimized Routing (TLAOR) algorithmic framework, integrating trust-based security, adaptive node positioning, and intelligent route optimization. TLAOR employs a threefold strategy: First, a trust-based node selection mechanism evaluates nodes based on location consistency, energy levels, and historical behavior, ensuring only reliable nodes participate in routing, mitigating malicious activities. Second, the Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA) dynamically adjusts node positions to maximize Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) and optimize energy distribution, improving coverage and efficiency. Third, an optimized routing mechanism integrates the Ad-Hoc On-Demand Distance Vector (AODV) routing protocol with the Cuckoo Search Algorithm (CSA) to minimize hop count, delay, and energy consumption, enhancing routing performance. To validate TLAOR, simulations were conducted and compared against existing methods based on packet delivery ratio (PDR), throughput, end-to-end delay, energy consumption, and malicious node detection accuracy. Results show TLAOR achieves PDR above 98 percent, reduces average delay to less than 0.05s, and improves malicious node detection accuracy to over 99 percent, outperforming conventional approaches in tested scenarios. Additionally, TLAOR significantly reduces energy consumption, supporting prolonged network sustainability. This cohesive approach demonstrates potential for application in scenarios such as disaster response, military communications, and smart city networks, where secure, efficient, and adaptive connectivity is critical. By integrating trust-driven node selection, adaptive mobility, and energy-efficient routing, TLAOR improves the reliability, security, and performance of MANETs under simulated conditions.