Medium Access Control QoS Analysis in VANET, FANET Software Defined Radio Platform ()
1. Introduction
Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs) represent a critical technological foundation for intelligent transportation systems, enabling vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communications. These networks promise to improve road safety, reduce traffic congestion, and enhance driving experiences through the deployment of safety-critical and infotainment applications. However, achieving Quality of Service (QoS) in VANETs poses substantial challenges due to their unique and dynamic operational environments.
VANETs face several inherent challenges that hinder the realization of robust QoS. High-speed vehicular movements and unpredictable trajectories lead to frequent link breakages and fluctuating connectivity, complicating routing and hindering consistent QoS delivery [1] [2]. The density of vehicles fluctuates significantly between sparse rural highways and dense urban environments. While high-density scenarios often result in network congestion, low-density areas may suffer from intermittent connectivity, both of which negatively impact latency and packet delivery [3].
Additionally, the shared wireless spectrum in VANETs is prone to interference from coexisting networks and external devices, requiring effective interference management and spectrum allocation to maintain reliable communication channels [1]. As the number of connected vehicles grows, the network must scale without QoS degradation, necessitating advanced resource management and scalable protocol designs [1]. Security threats, such as spoofing and eavesdropping, can further degrade QoS and compromise user trust, making secure communication while maintaining user privacy a critical priority [1] [4].
Interoperability with heterogeneous networks, such as cellular and Wi-Fi, introduces additional technical complexities while being essential for consistent QoS delivery [1]. Moreover, VANET applications range from latency-sensitive safety messages to bandwidth-intensive infotainment services, making the balance of these diverse QoS demands a complex endeavor that requires adaptive network management strategies [5] [6].
This study addresses how MAC protocols in VANETs can be optimized to ensure QoS under varying network conditions, with a particular focus on the role of Software Defined Radio (SDR) platforms in enhancing adaptability and efficiency. The study evaluates MAC protocol performance in VANETs implemented on an SDR platform, examining key QoS metrics such as throughput, latency, packet delivery ratio, and fairness. It proposes solutions to improve MAC protocol adaptability and scalability and highlights the potential of SDR platforms for prototyping and testing innovative MAC protocols tailored to VANET scenarios.
By tackling these aspects, the study contributes to advancing the understanding and implementation of QoS-driven communication solutions in VANETs, paving the way for reliable and efficient intelligent transportation systems.
This paper is structured as follows: Section 2 provides a comprehensive review of the state-of-the-art in VANET QoS research by focusing on key advancements in MAC protocols and their integration with Software Defined Radio (SDR) platforms. Section 3 details the methodology employed in this study, including the design and simulation of SDR-based VANET scenarios under varying network conditions. Section 4 presents the results, offering a critical analysis of the performance of MAC protocols in terms of throughput, latency, packet delivery, and fairness. Section 5 discusses the implications of the findings, outlining potential strategies for addressing the identified challenges and improving QoS in VANETs. Finally, Section 6 concludes the paper and suggests directions for future research to further enhance the adaptability and reliability of VANET communication systems.
2. Background/State of the Art
This section synthesizes key works on multiple access techniques, interference management, and Quality of Service (QoS) in wireless communication systems, emphasizing DS/CDMA networks, ad hoc systems, and applications in heterogeneous and dynamic environments, such as software-defined networks (SDRs). This review is structured into thematically organized subsections, with a focus on providing comparative analyses and identifying research gaps.
2.1. Channel Adaptation Techniques and Interference Management
Channel adaptation and interference management are critical to enhancing communication reliability in dynamic network environments. Aguiar et al. (2003) proposed a framework evaluating the impact of inaccuracies in channel prediction on adaptive techniques, emphasizing the necessity for robust algorithms [7]. Hui and Letaief (1988) introduced a successive interference cancellation technique for DS/CDMA multi-user receivers, highlighting synchronization and equalization’s role in improving downlink quality [2]. Verdú (1998) advanced multi-user detection by proposing mathematical models to minimize interference, forming the basis for adaptive MAC techniques [8].
Table 1 provides a comparative summary of these studies, showcasing their methodologies and key contributions.
2.2. Receiver Performance and Error Analysis
Receiver design significantly impacts overall system performance. Latva-aho (1998) analyzed bit error probabilities in WCDMA downlink receivers, identifying receiver design as crucial for system performance [9]. Evans and Tse (2000) demonstrated that the adaptability of algorithms in large-scale systems is vital for maintaining performance in multipath channels [10].
Figure 1 illustrates a comparative error performance of receivers under different conditions, emphasizing the critical role of design choices. The WCDMA Receiver demonstrates a steady improvement in BER with increasing SNR, consistent with findings in [9]. The Linear Receiver performs slightly worse, reflecting the limitations discussed in [10]. The MMSE Receiver exhibits superior performance, particularly at moderate to high SNR levels, validating its efficacy in minimizing interference, as highlighted in [8]. The Decorrelator Receiver provides competitive performance, achieving BER levels close to the MMSE Receiver
Table 1. Comparative analysis of channel adaptation techniques.
Studies |
Methodology |
Key Contribution |
Aguiar et al. (2003) [7] |
Framework for evaluating channel prediction inaccuracies |
Highlighted the need for robust prediction algorithms |
Hui and Letaief (1988) [2] |
Successive interference cancellation in DS/CDMA |
Improved synchronization and equalization for downlink quality |
Verdú (1998) [8] |
Mathematical models for interference minimization |
Foundational work for adaptive MAC techniques |
Latva-aho (1998) [9] |
Analysis of bit error probabilities in WCDMA downlink receivers |
Demonstrated the critical role of receiver design in system performance |
Evans and Tse (2000) [10] |
Performance analysis of linear receivers in multipath channels |
Highlighted the impact of adaptation on large-scale system performance |
Sampath et al. (1995) [6] |
Power control and resource management in multimedia CDMA systems |
Proposed dynamic resource allocation to ensure QoS for multimedia streams |
Chamola et al. (2020) [4] |
Analysis of UAV attacks and mitigation techniques |
Applied insights to address MAC security in wireless networks |
Zhang et al. (2009) [11] |
Design of multiuser detection-based MAC protocol for ad hoc networks |
Proposed novel interference management solutions for uncoordinated environments |
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Figure 1. Bit Error Rate (BER) performance of receivers [8]-[10] [12].
at higher SNRs, as reported in [12]. This comparative analysis underscores the advantages of advanced receivers like MMSE and Decorrelator in enhancing system performance under interference-prone conditions.
2.3. Resource Management and Power Control
Efficient resource management and power control are essential for supporting multimedia applications, particularly in high-demand wireless networks. These mechanisms ensure that users receive the necessary Quality of Service (QoS) while optimizing network resources.
Sampath et al. (1995) [6] proposed a dynamic resource allocation model for multimedia CDMA systems. Their approach allowed for adaptive resource distribution, ensuring that different multimedia streams met their QoS requirements. The model incorporated power control strategies to maintain communication reliability under varying network conditions.
Tony and Arne (1998) [13] introduced innovative schemes to support multiple rates in DS/CDMA systems. By dynamically adjusting the transmission rate according to user requirements and channel conditions, their approach improved both spectral efficiency and QoS. This method demonstrated the potential of adaptive resource allocation in addressing the diverse needs of multimedia applications.
To further illustrate the importance of resource management and power control, we present a comparative analysis of key studies in Table 2.
Table 2. Comparative analysis of resource management and power control techniques.
Studies |
Methodology |
Key Contribution |
Sampath et al. (1995) [6] |
Dynamic resource allocation and power control in CDMA systems |
Ensured QoS for multimedia streams through adaptive resource distribution |
Tony and Arne (1998) [13] |
Multi-rate schemes in DS/CDMA systems |
Enhanced spectral efficiency and QoS through dynamic rate adaptation |
Zhang et al. (2009) [11] |
Multiuser detection-based MAC design |
Optimized interference management in uncoordinated environments |
2.4. Ad Hoc Systems and Medium Access Control (MAC)
Ad hoc systems and Medium Access Control (MAC) play a pivotal role in managing communication in highly dynamic and decentralized environments, such as Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs). The MAC layer is responsible for resolving contention, minimizing collisions, and ensuring fair access to the communication medium, thereby directly impacting network performance and Quality of Service (QoS).
Zhang et al. (2009) [11] proposed a novel MAC protocol based on multiuser detection for ad hoc networks. This protocol optimized interference management in uncoordinated environments, significantly enhancing overall network capacity. By leveraging advanced detection techniques, their work addressed the challenges posed by high mobility and dynamic topology.
Chamola et al. (2020) [4] conducted a detailed analysis of MAC security, highlighting the vulnerabilities of wireless networks to attacks. While their study primarily focused on UAVs, the principles and mitigation strategies are equally relevant for VANETs. Their research emphasized the importance of designing secure MAC protocols to counteract potential threats.
To provide a comprehensive understanding, Table 3 compares key studies on MAC protocols, showcasing their methodologies and contributions. Additionally, Figure 2 illustrates the performance comparison of different MAC protocols under varying network conditions. The results show that TDMA-based MAC [14] consistently outperforms other protocols due to its efficient scheduling and collision-free transmission. Self-Sorting MAC [15] and Hybrid MAC [16] also exhibit strong performance, balancing resource allocation and reducing contention effectively. Multiuser Detection MAC [11] demonstrates good scalability, though it
Table 3. Comparative analysis of MAC protocols in ad hoc systems.
Studies |
Methodology |
Key Contribution |
Zhang et al. (2009) [11] |
Multiuser detection-based MAC protocol |
Enhanced interference management and network capacity |
Chamola et al. (2020) [4] |
Security analysis of MAC in UAV networks |
Identified vulnerabilities and proposed mitigation strategies |
Blaszczyszyn et al. (2009) [18] |
Performance evaluation of MAC in linear VANETs |
Analyzed MAC tuning for varying attenuation and fading conditions |
Cao et al. (2016) [19] |
Multichannel MAC protocol improvement for VANETs |
Improved throughput and reduced delay by optimizing control and service channel intervals |
Almalag et al. (2013) [20] |
Analysis of MAC protocols for VANETs |
Proposed enhancements for QoS in safety-critical vehicular communication |
Shen et al. (2017) [15] |
Self-sorting MAC protocol for high-density VANETs |
Introduced queue-based channel access to reduce contention and improve throughput |
Jayaraj et al. (2016) [16] |
Hybrid MAC protocol survey for VANETs |
Provided a classification of hybrid MAC protocols and analyzed their efficiency in traffic scenarios |
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Figure 2. Packet Delivery Ratio (PDR) Comparison of MAC Protocols. The performance of Multiuser Detection MAC [11], Traditional CSMA/CA [17], TDMA-based MAC [14], Hybrid MAC [16], and Self-Sorting MAC [15] are compared under increasing user loads.
lags behind TDMA and Hybrid solutions in high-load scenarios. Traditional CSMA/CA [17] exhibits the lowest PDR among the compared protocols, highlighting its limitations in handling higher user densities.
2.5. Threats and Neutralization Techniques
Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs) are increasingly exposed to a wide range of threats, including malicious attacks and interference, which compromise network performance and security. To address these challenges, robust neutralization techniques must be developed.
Chamola et al. (2020) [4] provided an in-depth analysis of drone-based attacks and their mitigation strategies, emphasizing principles applicable to wireless networks. Their work identified key threats, such as jamming, eavesdropping, and spoofing, and outlined countermeasures, including encryption and adaptive communication protocols.
Zhang et al. (2009) [11] proposed a multiuser detection-based MAC design, which effectively manages interference in uncoordinated environments. By leveraging advanced detection techniques, their approach enhances network resilience against various forms of interference.
Tony and Arne (1998) [13] highlighted the importance of rate adaptation as a means to mitigate the effects of dynamic interference. Their work demonstrated how adaptive techniques could maintain QoS even under adverse conditions.
Table 4 shows key studies in this domain, highlighting the methodologies and
Table 4. Comparative analysis of threats and neutralization techniques.
Studies |
Threat Addressed |
Key Contribution |
Chamola et al. (2020) [4] |
Jamming, eavesdropping, spoofing |
Provided mitigation strategies, including adaptive protocols and encryption |
Zhang et al. (2009) [11] |
Interference in uncoordinated environments |
Proposed multiuser detection-based MAC design for interference management |
Tony and Arne (1998) [13] |
Dynamic interference in DS/CDMA systems |
Demonstrated the effectiveness of rate adaptation for maintaining QoS |
Latva-aho (1998) [9] |
High error rates in WCDMA systems |
Introduced improved receiver designs for minimizing bit error rates in fading environments |
Hui and Letaief (1988) [2] |
Multipath interference in DS/CDMA |
Developed successive interference cancellation techniques to enhance synchronization |
Eze et al. (2014) [21] |
Security vulnerabilities in VANETs |
Highlighted open challenges in VANET security and suggested design principles for robust MAC protocols |
Park and Kim (2012) [22] |
Adaptive rate control |
Proposed a MAC algorithm supporting adaptive transmission rates for better interference handling |
contributions. Figure 3 illustrates a general threat model for VANETs, showcasing potential attack vectors and corresponding neutralization strategies.
Figure 3. General threat model and neutralization strategies for VANETs.
This section emphasizes the importance of understanding potential threats and implementing robust neutralization techniques to ensure the reliability and security of VANETs. Future research should focus on developing adaptive methods that address emerging threats in dynamic network environments.
2.6. Theoretical Foundations and Reference Works
Theoretical foundations form the cornerstone of advancements in wireless communication systems. These works provide the mathematical and algorithmic underpinnings that guide system design, analysis, and optimization.
Proakis (2001) [23] laid the groundwork for modern digital communication by providing an exhaustive exploration of principles such as modulation techniques, error correction, and channel coding. This text remains a reference for engineers and researchers designing robust wireless systems.
Verdú (1998) [8] contributed significantly to the field of multiuser detection, presenting mathematical models to minimize interference in multiuser network systems. These models have informed the development of adaptive Medium Access Control (MAC) techniques, crucial for improving system performance in densely populated networks.
Hui and Letaief (1988) [2] introduced successive interference cancellation methods for DS/CDMA detectors, demonstrating the importance of synchronization and equalization in mitigating multipath fading effects. These techniques continue to influence receiver design for enhanced signal integrity.
Table 5 shows key theoretical contributions, while Figure 4 provides a
Table 5. Summary of theoretical foundations in wireless communication.
References |
Focus Area |
Key Contribution |
Proakis (2001) [23] |
Digital communication principles |
Comprehensive guide on modulation, coding, and error correction |
Verdú(1998) [8] |
Multiuser detection |
Introduced models for interference minimization in multiuser networks |
Hui and Letaief (1988) [2] |
Interference cancellation in DS/CDMA |
Enhanced synchronization and equalization for mitigating multipath fading |
conceptual diagram illustrating the relationship between these foundational works and practical advancements in wireless communication.
3. Methodology
This section outlines the methodology employed to evaluate the performance of Medium Access Control (MAC) protocols in VANETs using a Software-Defined Radio (SDR) platform. It details the design of the radio access layer, scheduling algorithms, and simulation setup, emphasizing the strategies adopted to address scalability, adaptability, and Quality of Service (QoS) in dynamic vehicular environments.
3.1. Radio Access Layer Environment
At the radio access layer of the MUD-MAC protocol, two types of logical channels are defined:
Each access channel is characterized by several parameters, including:
Minimum required throughput.
Maximum tolerable packet loss rate (PER).
Minimum reception rate.
Maximum admissible delay.
Two approaches govern user access:
Non-Iterative Static Method: Admits users whose QoS criteria are consistent with the demand. This method has lower computational complexity and is suitable for real-time applications.
Iterative Dynamic Method: Involves negotiation between transmitters and receivers to adjust QoS constraints. Although it offers higher resource utilization, it is computationally intensive and less suitable for dynamic environments.
In this study, the non-iterative static method is adopted due to its simplicity and real-time adaptability, which aligns with the constraints of VANET systems.
Figure 4 illustrates a cross-layer design for Quality of Service (QoS) scheduling. The process begins with RTS (Request to Send) requests from users, including prescribed QoS requirements. At the physical layer, these requests are evaluated using predictions of channel conditions
and interference
. The cross-layer modules compare the predicted Packet Error Rate (PER) and available data rates against the prescribed QoS constraints. Based on this comparison, a decision is made, and the corresponding response (CTS—Clear to Send) is sent back to the users. This mechanism ensures efficient resource allocation and adherence to QoS requirements.
3.2. Scheduling Algorithms and User Capacity
The scheduling algorithm is designed to determine the number of users a receiver can support while meeting QoS requirements. The following algorithms are
Figure 4. QoS scheduling.
implemented:
1) QoS-Guaranteed Access Algorithm: Inspired by Aguiar et al. [7], this algorithm predicts the packet loss rate and forwards packets only if errors are within FEC limits. It ensures reliability in high-demand scenarios.
2) Single-Rate Access Algorithm Without QoS: A baseline algorithm that does not consider channel conditions, transmitting packets blindly. It has low computational overhead.
3) Multi-User Detection Access Algorithm With Power Control: Based on Sampath et al. [6], this algorithm calculates the number of admissible users using a matched filter receiver. It efficiently manages resource allocation under high user loads.
3.3. Simulation and Results
This section presents a comprehensive evaluation of the Medium Access Control (MAC) layer performance in Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs), focusing on key metrics such as packet delivery ratio (PDR), throughput, and user capacity under diverse mobility scenarios and channel conditions. Table 6 provides a comparative analysis of the scheduling algorithms used in these simulations,
Table 6. Comparative analysis of scheduling algorithms.
Algorithms |
Focus |
Strengths |
QoS-Guaranteed Access [7] |
Ensures QoS through FEC-based prediction |
High reliability, suitable for critical applications |
Single-Rate Access [13] |
Baseline algorithm without QoS considerations |
Low computational complexity |
Multi-User Detection with Power Control [6] |
Integrates power control for scalability |
Efficient resource utilization |
TDMA-Based Scheduling [14] |
Allocates time slots for users to avoid collisions |
High channel utilization, suitable for real-time communication |
Dynamic Slot Allocation [15] |
Adjusts time slots based on user demands and mobility |
Reduces contention and improves throughput in high-density scenarios |
Adaptive Channel Access [19] |
Optimizes control and service channel intervals |
Minimizes delay and enhances throughput for safety-critical messages |
highlighting the strengths of each approach based on their specific characteristics. The simulations are conducted using a Software-Defined Radio (SDR) platform, leveraging QoS-prescribed scheduling algorithms and multi-user detection techniques to address the unique challenges of dynamic vehicular environments.
3.3.1. Physical Layer Metrics in Multipath Channels
The computation of bit error rate (BER) metrics is conducted in a multipath channel environment. The receiver consists of two components:
Demodulation of received signal paths.
Branch combination using linear operations such as matched filtering, successive interference suppression, and decorrelation.
The SINR for a receiving branch remains consistent with single-path channels, as demonstrated by Hui and Letaief [2]. Error probabilities for different modulation types (BPSK, QPSK, QAM) are calculated and combined using the SINR maximization method proposed by Proakis [23].
3.3.2. Radio Access Layer Metrics at Data Slot Level
The overall performance is evaluated using reception rate and average throughput metrics. The packet loss rate is derived from the BER and depends on modulation and receiver type. Total loss is computed as a function of data classes, including spreading factor, number of parallel codes, and constellation size.
To estimate the total packets received, a formula accounting for link loss, number of users, and total transmitted packets is applied.
Figure 5 compares the throughput performance of four scheduling algorithms: QoS-Guaranteed, Single-Rate, Power-Control, and Hybrid Adaptive, as the number of users increases. The QoS-Guaranteed algorithm, inspired by Sampath et al. [6],
Figure 5. Throughput comparison across algorithms.
maintains steady performance, ensuring consistent throughput even under higher user loads. The Power-Control algorithm, based on Zhang et al. [11], exhibits the highest throughput due to efficient resource allocation strategies, while the Single-Rate algorithm [9] suffers significant performance degradation as the user count grows. The Hybrid Adaptive algorithm, proposed by Cao et al. [19], provides a balanced performance, adapting well to varying user demands and network conditions. These results highlight the benefits of adaptive techniques in managing network resources effectively and ensuring reliable communication in dynamic environments.
4. Simulation Results
The simulation results provide a comprehensive evaluation of the Medium Access Control (MAC) protocols in Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs), focusing on their performance under varying mobility, channel conditions, and Quality of Service (QoS) constraints. Key metrics, including packet delivery ratio (PDR), throughput, and user capacity, are analyzed to highlight the strengths and limitations of the proposed QoS-prescribed scheduling algorithms and multi-user detection techniques.
4.1. Performance of the Medium Access Layer in the Presence of Prediction
The performance of the medium access layer was analyzed under varying conditions of mobility and slot durations. The following key findings were observed:
The reception rate for single-rate transmission without QoS was 89.33%, compared to 86.53% when packets were sent with fixed QoS for a data slot duration of 1 ms (Figure 6).
For longer slots, the reception rate for single-rate transmission without QoS dropped significantly, from 44.66% to 11.17% for nodes moving at a speed of 10 m/s. Conversely, the reception rate for transmissions with fixed QoS increased from 88.76% to 96.07%.
Single-rate transmission without QoS is highly vulnerable to errors caused by channel gain drops. However, the average reception rate with QoS consistently improved from 88.72% to 97.05%.
The fixed QoS transmission algorithm achieved significantly higher throughput (11 - 12 Mbps) compared to single-rate transmission (2 - 0.3 Mbps), as shown in Figure 7.
Figure 6. Packet reception rate, access algorithms, as a function of data slot length in a fixed-to-mobile multipath channel, v = 20, 35, and 50 m/s.
Fixed-to-Mobile Multipath Channel
In high-mobility environments, the reception rate for transmitting nodes at 10 m/s increased to 20 m/s. Despite increased attenuation due to mobility, diversity receivers mitigated the effects. Key observations include:
The reception rate remained stable despite increased interference.
The average useful throughput per user increased with the load, demonstrating the robustness of QoS-enabled access algorithms.
Figure 6 illustrates the packet delivery rate (PDR) as a function of data slot length under different speeds. Scheduling algorithms with prescribed QoS demonstrate higher PDR, particularly for shorter slot durations, highlighting their effectiveness in multipath environments.
4.2. Physical Layer Metrics
Multipath effects significantly influence QoS metrics. Increased mobility leads to higher attenuation, which impacts the reception rate and throughput. However, diversity receivers mitigate these effects, ensuring stable performance even in high-mobility scenarios.
4.3. Radio Access Layer Metrics
The simulation results indicate that QoS-prescribed scheduling algorithms are more resilient to real-world VANET conditions. For instance, the results in Figure 7 demonstrate that prescribed QoS algorithms achieve higher aggregated throughput despite varying speeds and user loads.
4.4. Practical Implications
The findings emphasize the importance of robust QoS algorithms in ensuring reliable VANET communication. Specifically, high reception rates and stable throughput under high mobility conditions suggest that these methods are viable for real-world deployment in dynamic vehicular networks.
Figure 7. Aggregated useful throughput, access algorithms, as a function of the number of users in a fixed-to-mobile multipath channel, v = 20, 35, and 50 m/s.
5. Conclusions
This study presented a comprehensive analysis of the Medium Access Control (MAC) layer performance in Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANETs) using Software-Defined Radio (SDR) platforms. By calculating the number of admissible users under QoS constraints, the research highlights the significant advantages of incorporating QoS-enabled algorithms compared to single-rate transmission without QoS. For instance, in a single-path channel with a threshold of 25 dB and a power of 0.1 mW, the number of admissible users reached approximately 190, and in other configurations, it scaled up to the simulated maximum of 272 users.
The findings demonstrate that mobility increases pose challenges to the system, yet the results remained within acceptable quality limits even under severe channel conditions caused by high-speed variations. These results underline the robustness and scalability of the proposed algorithms in dynamic vehicular environments.
This research provides valuable insights into the optimization of MAC protocols for VANETs, emphasizing the potential of SDR technology for adaptive, scalable, and QoS-driven vehicular communication. The demonstrated stability and efficiency suggest that SDR-based MAC protocols can play a pivotal role in the future development of intelligent transportation systems (ITS), ensuring both safety and efficiency in highly dynamic vehicular environments.
Future studies should explore the inclusion of iterative dynamic methods to enhance user capacity and adaptability further. Additionally, testing in larger networks with real-world configurations will provide more practical insights into scalability and performance. The integration of machine learning techniques for dynamic QoS prediction and the use of hybrid approaches combining static and iterative methods could also yield promising results. Such advancements could pave the way for next-generation VANETs capable of supporting emerging applications in autonomous driving and smart cities.