ABSTRACT
The world is moving towards the new era of a next-generation network where 24 × 7 connectivity is one of the key objectives. In the coming years, almost all devices need to be connected with each other and form their own network without any infrastructure. These type of network is known wireless ad-hoc network and gaining popularity very fast. It is a self-configuring, self-organizing and autonomous network. Due to its unique characteristics, MANET plays a key role in user-centric next generation futuristic applications.
In this chapter, an effort has been made together to demystify various aspects of a wireless ad-hoc network in the context of next-generation network i.e. 5G and beyond. To understand the mobile ad-hoc network and its important role in the evolution of the next-generation network, various issues and challenges are explained. In addition, the routing protocols in the context of the next-generation network along with Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) and security issues are explained in a lucid style. Various Quality of Service (QoS) parameters like throughput, packet delivery ratio, jitter etc. and their major role in the next generation network is also discussed. At the end future applications of wireless ad-hoc networks in 5G and overview of a next-generation wireless network architecture where the importance of heterogeneous network is discussed. It includes the recent advantage of Voice over long-term evolution (VoLTE) in using Evolved Packet Core (EPC).A brief discussion on the role of software-defined networking (SDN) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV) which reduce cost and increases flexibility (Personalized Services) would play a smart role in the years to come, is also presented.
