Measuring efficiency in opportunistic ad hoc networks

Opportunistic Networks are examples of wireless, ad hoc networks where there is an absence of a continuous end-to-end path. The proliferation of mobile device usage creates opportunities for nodes to forward packets in a dynamic way, utilizing nodes as they present themselves. In more conventional, static network infrastructures, it is typical to measure efficiency of message passing between nodes. We review approaches to the measurement of efficiency in networks, and propose a qualitative and quantitative metrics framework and simulation model that would be suitable for the evaluation of performance in opportunistic networks.