In recent years, the rapid development of wireless communication technologies has brought about the need for effective methods to improve signal quality and network performance. One such essential concept in this realm is Relay Selection, which plays a pivotal role in optimizing communication across various network topologies, especially in multi-hop networks, the Internet of Things (IoT), and mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs). This article aims to explore the principles of relay selection, its objectives, strategies, and application scenarios.
The Concept of Relay Selection Relay selection refers to the process of choosing optimal relay nodes to facilitate the transmission of information from a source node to a destination node in a wireless network. Due to the inherent limitations of wireless channels—such as signal attenuation, interference, and fading—direct communication between nodes can often be unreliable. Relay nodes act as intermediaries that can improve signal strength, reduce transmission errors, and extend communication range. Objectives of Relay Selection The primary goals of relay selection are as follows：