A comparative view of routing protocols for underwater wireless sensor networks

Design of efficient routing protocols for underwater sensor networks is challenging because of the distinctive characteristics of the water medium. Currently, many routing protocols are available for terrestrial wireless sensor networks. However, specific properties of underwater medium such as limited bandwidth, high propagation delay, high bit error rates, and 3D deployment make the existing routing protocols inappropriate for underwater sensor networks. In this paper, we provide a guideline on use of existing underwater routing protocols, identify their shortcomings, and give an insight on what is needed to design an efficient and reliable underwater routing protocol.