Enhancing Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs) with Software-Defined Networking (SDN): A Balanced Approach
Networking and Internet Architecture
2026-01-16 v1 Emerging Technologies
Abstract
Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs) are decentralized wireless networks, characterized by their dynamic topologies and node mobility. In the era of cutting-edge technologies, integrating Software-Defined Networking (SDN) with MANETs offers a promising solution to manage these challenges more efficiently. This paper presents a balanced discussion of MANETs and SDN, demonstrating how SDN principles, such as centralized control and network virtualization, can optimize MANET performance in terms of scalability, cost-efficiency, and security. A mathematical model is developed to analyze Capital Expenditures (CAPEX), Operational Expenditures (OPEX), and network efficiency.
Cite
@article{arxiv.2601.10556,
title = {Enhancing Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs) with Software-Defined Networking (SDN): A Balanced Approach},
author = {Riccardo Fonti and Andrea Piroddi},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2601.10556},
year = {2026}
}