Cellular vs. Ad Hoc Networks: A Detailed Comparison

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ad hoc network
wireless network
network topology
mobile communication

This article compares cellular networks and ad hoc networks, highlighting the key differences between these two types of wireless communication systems. We’ll explore the characteristics of infrastructure-based (cellular) and infrastructure-less (ad hoc) networks.

Understanding Wireless Network Types

There are three primary types of wireless networks:

  • Infrastructure Networks: These networks rely on a fixed infrastructure, like cellular networks.
  • Hybrid Networks: Combine elements of both infrastructure and ad hoc networks.
  • Ad Hoc Networks: Self-organizing networks that don’t require a central infrastructure.

Let’s dive into a comparison of infrastructure-based and infrastructure-less network types.

Cellular Networks: The Infrastructure Approach

Cellular networks, such as GSM, CDMA, and LTE, represent the infrastructure-based approach.

cellular network

Cellular Network Infrastructure

A cellular network comprises a central entity known as a base station (BTS) and mobile devices referred to as Mobile Subscribers (MSs). When MS-B needs to communicate with MS-C, the communication transits through the base station (BTS).

Prior to the development of cellular networks, communication relied on high-power transmitters covering vast ranges (in kilometers). However, this came at the expense of significant power consumption. Cellular networks evolved to utilize numerous low-power transmitters, each serving a smaller “cell” within its coverage area. This approach allows for supporting a larger number of subscribers.

The primary goal of cellular networks is to maximize subscriber capacity. The geographical area is divided into smaller cells, each managed by a base station (e.g., BTS in GSM). These base stations are interconnected using various topology configurations and connect to MSCs (Mobile Switching Centers) and other cellular infrastructure components.

There are two main cell types:

  • Macrocells: Cover larger areas, typically ranging from 1 to 20 kilometers.
  • Microcells: Cover smaller areas, typically ranging from 0.1 to 1 kilometer.

Macrocells use high-power transmitters, while microcells utilize low-power transmitters.

Access techniques like TDMA, FDMA, and CDMA are employed to enhance subscriber capacity within a cellular network. This is generally considered a single-hop system. For more information, refer to a cellular communication tutorial.

Ad Hoc Networks: The Infrastructure-less Alternative

Ad hoc networks operate independently, without the need for a fixed infrastructure.

Ad Hoc network

Ad Hoc Network Example

These networks are self-organizing, utilizing a multi-hop radio relay concept. Due to the absence of a central entity like a base station, routing and resource management (e.g., frequency allocation) are more complex compared to cellular networks.

The cell boundary shown in the figure is merely representative and doesn’t have the same significance as in cellular networks.

In ad hoc networks, communication between two nodes (e.g., MS-A and MS-C) may occur through intermediate nodes (e.g., MS-D). Examples of ad hoc networks include mesh networks and WSN (Wireless Sensor Network) networks.

Nodes in ad hoc networks are more complex, requiring functionalities for transmission, reception, and routing. For more insights, refer to the WLAN Adhoc vs Infrastructure mode comparison.

Cellular Network vs. Ad Hoc Network: A Side-by-Side Comparison

The following table summarizes the key differences between cellular and ad hoc networks based on various system parameters.

ParametersCellular networkAd Hoc network
Network RoutingCentralized; all traffic goes through the Base StationDistributed; no centralized system such as a base station is needed
Switching TypeCircuit SwitchingPacket Switching
Number of HopsSingle hopMultiple hops
TopologyStarMesh
ApplicationDesigned and developed primarily for voice trafficDesigned to meet best-effort data traffic requirements
Cost and Time for InstallationHigher cost and more time required for deploymentLower cost and less time required for deployment
Call DropsLow call drops during mobility due to seamless connectivity across the regionHigher breaks in the path during mobility
Network MaintenanceRequires periodic maintenance, resulting in higher costsNodes are self-organizing, resulting in lower costs
Frequency Re-useUtilizes the same frequency channels in nearby cells with proper RF planning and antenna placement (static frequency re-use). Dynamic frequency re-use is employed using a carrier sense mechanism.Dynamic frequency re-use is employed using carrier sense mechanism.
Bandwidth (BW) MechanismBW allocation is guaranteed and relatively straightforwardBW allocation is based on a shared channel using complex MAC algorithms
TechnologiesIS-95, IS-136, GSM, Mobile WiMAX, CDMA, LTEWLAN 802.11e
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