Exploring Node Failure and Packet Loss in Wireless Sensor Networks: A Comprehensive Simulation Analysis

Abstract

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) have emerged as a fundamental technology in various applications, from environmental monitoring to industrial automation. Ensuring the reliability and performance of WSNs under adverse conditions is critical to their successful deployment. However, ensuring fairness in performance metrics is essential to optimize network utilization and provide equal service to all nodes in the network. In this paper, we present a comprehensive simulation-based study that investigates the resilience, performance, and fairness of WSNs, particularly those built on the IEEE 802.15.4 standard and employing CSMA/CA (carrier sense multiple access with collision avoidance), in the presence of node failures (NFs) and packet loss (PL). We propose and analyze seven distinct simulation configurations, each designed to test the network's behavior under different conditions. Through extensive simulations, we assess key metrics at node level (NL), including packet delivery ratio (PDR), latency, and energy consumption, and quantify fairness evaluation using the Jain index, providing insights into how each configuration affects NL performance and the equitable distribution of resources and performance across the network. The results emphasize the intricate interplay between PL and NF, unveiling both their effects on network metrics. These findings highlight the need for strong network protocols that can effectively address these challenges to maintain performance and fairness in dynamic environments.