Enhancing Energy Efficiency in Wireless Sensor Networks through Genetic Algorithm-Based Routing Approaches

Abstract

Modern technological systems rely heavily on Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs), which support many kinds of applications, including but not limited to: (1) environmental monitoring (2) medical monitoring and (3) smart city/infrastructure development. One major problem with extending the overall life of the network is the limited power source of the sensor nodes; therefore, energy-efficient communication has become one of the primary research areas. The direction of this work is a GA-based routing mechanism developed to minimize energy usage within WSNs. The proposed methodology employs evolutionary operators (e.g., selection, crossover, and mutation) that will adaptively develop low-energy routing paths and provide for an even distribution of traffic across all nodes. Also, node clustering, dynamic data aggregation, and multi-objective optimization are all methods used to improve network energy efficiency while not compromising the reliability of the data or the stability of the network. The simulations performed show that the proposed GA-based routing protocol offers improved power consumption, packet delivery rate and overall longevity of the network when compared to traditional methodologies such as LEACH or other energy aware GA methods. Additionally, the implementation analysis indicates a very high level of adaptability to node movement and variable traffic patterns, suggesting that it is robust and scalable. Thus, this research will help promote the development of energy-efficient wireless sensor networks (WSNs) as well as lay a solid foundation for future intelligent routing and effective resource management within future WSNs.