Outperforming RPL with scalable routing based on meaningful MAC addressing

RPL is the de-facto IPv6-based routing protocol for the Internet of Things (IoT), where networks are mainly formed by sensors and other low capacity devices. However, RPL lacks scalability and is inefficient in any-to any communications. In this article, we present IoTorii, a hierarchical protocol that creates routes based on a probe frame, instead of the computation of a distance vector, as in RPL. We implemented a proof-of-concept of IoTorii and compared it with RPL, proving lower number of table entries, decreased exchanged control messages and faster convergence time, with similar path hop count, which is particularly promising in the IoT field.

Automated summary

IoTorii is a hierarchical protocol that creates routes based on a probe frame, providing better scalability and efficiency compared to RPL in IoT networks. Experimental results show that IoTorii has a lower number of table entries, decreased exchanged control messages, and faster convergence time, making it a promising solution for IoT applications.