Delay / Disruption Tolerant Networking

A definition:

Delay-tolerant networks (DTNs) are designed to address networks exhibiting intermittent connectivity. In general, DTN  architecture can be defined as having one or more of the following characteristics:

(a) sparse connectivity (i.e., end-to-end route between source and destination may not even exist);

(b) long or variable delay;

(c) asymmetric data rate;

(d) high error rate.

Such characteristics can be the result of various factors, including sever power fluctuations, wireless range, network partitioning, catastrophic disasters, or malicious attacks.

Consequently, applications of DTNs are highly diverse and can be expanded to a wide variety of areas. Examples of such areas are interplanetary networks for deep space communications, sensor networks for ecological monitoring, transient networks to benefit developing communities, ad hoc networks to disseminate information in tactical or roadway environments, and disaster recovery networks to restore communications following a natural disaster. Diversity of network environments and inherent uncertainty about network conditions make design of DTNs highly challenging in terms of architecture, protocol designs, interoperability, security, management, and stability.