Towards a Trusted Channel Energy-Aware Routing Algorithm for Underwater Sensor Networks

Underwater Acoustic Sensor Networks (UASNs) exhibit exceptional detection prowess. As a multitude of underwater applications come to the fore, there's an evident surge in the diversity and volume of perceptual data. Nonetheless, the underwater environment introduces intrinsic challenges to UASNs, encompassing heightened energy demands, the imperative of transmission security, and the dynamic nature of network topology in variable conditions. This paper presents DESLR, a novel Energy-Efficient and Secure Layered Routing protocol underpinned by the Ant Colony Optimization Algorithm (ACOA). Central to DESLR is a channel-based trust model that seamlessly integrates both direct and indirect trust elements to interpret node dynamics. Given the paramount importance of the acoustic channel's dependability, we prioritize its assessment, especially since variable channel conditions can dramatically influence packet transmission. Additionally, we've incorporated a refined ACOA designed to pinpoint energy-efficient routing trajectories that concurrently curtail latency, striking a balance between energy expenditure and routing span. DESLR further champions a Layered Clustering paradigm, categorizing nodes into strategic clusters.