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IJEETC 2025 Vol.14(5): 266-273
doi: 10.18178/ijeetc.14.5.266-273

SD-LLN: A Novel Architecture Using SDN and NFV to Adapt RPL in Dynamic Low-Power and Lossy Network (LLN)

Manare Zerifi*, Abdellatif Ezzouhairi, and Abdelhak Boulaalam
Engineering, Systems and Applications Lab, ENSA, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University of Fez, Fez, Morocco
Email: manare.zerifi@usmba.ac.ma (M.Z.), abdellatif.ezzouhairi@usmba.ac.ma (A.E.), abdelhak.boulaalam@usmba.ac.ma (A.B.)
*Corresponding author

Manuscript received March 26, 2025; revised June 29, 2025; accepted August 6, 2025

Abstract—In Low-Power and Lossy Networks (LLNs), significant challenges arise due to the severe constraints on energy, memory, and processing capacities. These limitations hinder the efficiency of routing protocols like Routing Protocol for Low-Power and Lossy Networks (RPL), particularly in dynamic network topologies where frequent changes occur. We propose an innovative architecture integrating Software Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV) with RPL protocol to address this issue. SDN and NFV technologies introduce greater flexibility, programmability, and centralized control, enabling the network to adapt more effectively to dynamic changes. Our proposed Software Defined architecture for Low-Power and Lossy Network (SD-LLN) leverages these technologies to enhance RPL’s adaptability and resilience in varying network conditions. We improve network performance by integrating SDN/NFV with RPL, particularly in routing efficiency, stability, and resource optimization. Compared to traditional RPL implementations, our approach demonstrates significant advantages in providing an efficient and dynamic solution for managing dynamic LLNs. The results highlight the potential of this method in managing LLNs, offering a robust framework to effectively overcome dynamic, resource-constrained environments.

 
Index Terms—Low-Power and Lossy Networks (LLNs), Internet of Things (IoT), Network Function Virtualization (NFV), Routing Protocol for Low-Power and Lossy Networks (RPL), Software Defined Networking (SDN)

Cite: Manare Zerifi, Abdellatif Ezzouhairi, and Abdelhak Boulaalam, "SD-LLN: A Novel Architecture Using SDN and NFV to Adapt RPL in Dynamic Low-Power and Lossy Network (LLN)," International Journal of Electrical and Electronic Engineering & Telecommunications, Vol. 14, No. 5, pp. 266-273, 2025. doi: 10.18178/ijeetc.14.5.266-273

Copyright © 2025 by the authors. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY 4.0), which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided that the article is properly cited, the use is non-commercial and no modifications or adaptations are made.

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