IPv6 in Wireless Networks – Selected Issues

Abstract

The article presents issues concerning the construction of autonomous wireless networks based on the IPv6 protocol. Prospects of implementation of IPv6 in wireless networks and IPv6 features and mechanisms important in such applications are discussed. Research directions related to the use of IPv6 in wireless networks are also outlined. Then the selected concepts are described, arising in the course of the EFIPSANS (Exposing the Features in IP Version Six Protocols that can be Exploited/Extended for the Purposes of Designing/Building Autonomic Networks and Services) project, during studies on the autonomy of nodes and routing configuration for wireless networks. Concepts presented here apply to wireless ad hoc mesh networks. Discussed is their nature and aspects related to auto-configuration and autonomously operating routing. In particular, there is a Wireless Autonomic Routing Framework (WARF) architecture presented.