Difference between Cellular and Ad hoc network

The Cellular type of wireless communication network and the Ad hoc type of wireless communication network are two different categories that are used for number of different functions. Although both facilitate wireless communications, they are structurally, functionally, and application-wise vastly distinct. It is also important to have knowledge on these differences so as to be able to choose the correct network type depending on the application that needs to be accomplished. The comparison between Cellular and Ad hoc networks, as well as the strengths and weaknesses, and application area are also described in this article.

What is Cellular Network?

A Cellular network or Mobile network is a radio network distributed over land areas called cells, each served by at least one fixed-location transceiver, known as a cell site or base station. At present sent cell remote systems, for example, GSM/CDMA/HSPA/LTE are foundation type. Cell organize comprises of focal element known as base station and cell phones as Mobile Subscribers(MS). In the event that MS-A needs to speak with MS-B, correspondence happens by means of base station(BTS) as appeared in the figure. It follows hexagonal pattern. 

Advantages of Cellular Networks

• Wide Coverage Area: Cellular networks are able to connect large areas and therefore are used for telecommunication with large distances.
• High Reliability: The cellular Networks are the most stable and reliable networks since they are well established.
• Seamless Roaming: This way the users can shift from one cell to another without disconnecting the communication process.

Disadvantages of Cellular Networks

• High Cost: The establishment and the sustenance of a cellular network infrastructure require a lot of capital.
• Dependence on Infrastructure: Due to the fact that the network functionality depends greatly on infrastructure, it is inclined to failures.
• Limited Flexibility: The use of cellular network requires less dexterity and is relatively cumbersome when trying to deploy in new terrains.

What is Ad hoc Network?

An ad hoc network is a network that is composed of individual devices communicating with each other directly. The term implies spontaneous or impromptu construction because these networks often bypass the gatekeeping hardware or central access point such as a router. Many ad hoc networks are local area networks where computers or other devices are enabled to send data directly to one another rather than going through a centralized access point.

Advantages of Ad hoc Networks

• Infrastructure Independence: Ad hoc networks are not any permanent pre existing structure hence are very much flexible and can be established very easily.
• Scalability: Such networks may furthermore be expanded or reduced in size based on the number of devices and coverage area needed.
• Cost-Effective: The Ad hoc networks are cheaper in implementation in that they do not require elaborate infrastructure.

Disadvantages of Ad hoc Networks

• Limited Range: The range of the signal communication is constrained to the physical distance of the devices hence not suitable for long ranges.
• Lower Reliability: This means that, because the network relies on individual devices, the connection may be less steady, and therefore more susceptible to failings.
• Security Concerns: Due to the decentralized nature of Ad hoc networks there is likelihood of the networks to be vulnerable to security issues.  

Difference between Cellular Network and Ad hoc Network

Conclusion

The main distinctions between Cellular and Ad hoc networks are in their application and functionality where one doesn’t replace the other. Otherwise, the cellular networks have large coverage, reliability and continuity of the communication but has high costs and more dependency over infrastructure. However, the new Ad hoc networks have the advantage of flexibility, easy deployment and relatively cheaper while they have the disadvantage of being limited in their range, reliability and security. All these differences assist in selecting the most appropriate type of network depending on the application that is of interest.