Assessing Contiki-NG’s Reliability for RPL-based Trickle Algorithm in IoT Networks
Mohammed Mahyoub, Ashraf Mahmoud · 2025
The IPv6 Routing Protocol for LLNs (RPL) is fundamental to the Internet of Things (IoT), providing essential routing capabilities for devices operating in constrained environments. At the heart of RPL’s efficiency is the Trickle Algorithm (TA), designed to optimize the dissemination of control messages across networks, balancing timely updates with the imperative to conserve bandwidth and energy. This paper focuses on validating the implementation of the TA within the Latest version of Contiki-OS (Contiki-NG), a leading experimental platform for IoT networks. By comparing the results of theoretical models with practical simulations of Contiki-NG, we aim to determine the reliability of the Contiki-NG representation of the TA behaviour. Our analysis reveals a high degree of agreement between theoretical expectations and simulated results, underscoring Contiki-NG’s robustness as a simulation tool for IoT research. The findings affirm the precision of Contiki-NG implementation and highlight the platform’s value in facilitating the development and testing of IoT protocols. By ensuring the reliability of these simulations, our work strengthens the confidence of the IoT research community in using Contiki-NG as a foundation for exploring innovative solutions to the unique challenges of IoT networks.