An Overview of Cluster-Based Routing Protocols in Wireless Sensor Networks: A Survey

Abstract

A Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) comprises numerous small, cost-effective, resource-constrained devices known as sensors, which are strategically placed within or in proximity to a physical area for observation purposes. These sensors, which are connected via wireless networks and the Internet, provide new prospects for a wide range of military and civilian applications, such as environmental monitoring, combat surveillance, and industrial process management. WSN efficiency is mostly determined by the routing protocol used. Routing protocols are widely grouped into network architecture based and operation-based protocols. Energy conservation is a major concern in WSNs, and clustering has emerged as one of the most popular methods for enhancing energy efficiency within these networks. Clustering routing protocols in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) offer several advantages, including improved scalability, optimized energy consumption, and prolonged network lifetime. In this study, we first address WSN system architecture, WSN design and routing challenges, routing protocol categorization, clustering concepts, and finally clustering routing protocols in which their objectives, advantages, and disadvantages are highlighted. Finally, we compare and conclude the study.