RPL vs traditional routing protocols: what makes it different?

Why IoT needs a new kind of routing

Traditional internet protocols like OSPF, RIP or BGP were created for fast, stable networks. They expect devices to have a lot of memory, strong connections and unlimited power.

In wireless IoT networks, things are very different. Devices are often battery-powered. Links are weak and change over time. Memory and energy are limited.

This is where RPL comes in – a protocol made for low-power and lossy networks.

How traditional routing protocols work

In wired networks, routers use protocols like OSPF or RIP to find the best path for data. They:

• keep full maps of the network,
  
• update each other with frequent messages,
  
• choose paths based on shortest distance or fastest speed.
  

This works well when networks are stable and resources are plenty. But in IoT, it causes problems:

• 
  routing tables grow too big for small devices,
  
• frequent updates drain batteries,
  
• unstable links create endless updates and route flapping.
  

How RPL changes the game

RPL was designed from the ground up for IoT. It takes a different approach:

• Devices form a simple logical tree toward a root node.
  
• Each device picks its best parent based on link quality.
  
• No full network map is needed.
  
• Updates are sent only when needed, using the Trickle algorithm.
  

Instead of shortest path, RPL focuses on best available path – balancing signal strength, reliability and energy use.

Key differences between RPL and traditional routing

1. Topology
Traditional protocols build full network graphs. RPL builds a DODAG – a directed tree toward a root.

2. Resource usage
OSPF and RIP need lots of memory and bandwidth. RPL minimizes control traffic and memory use.

3. Link assumptions
Traditional routing assumes stable, wired links. RPL expects lossy, wireless links that may change anytime.

4. Traffic patterns
Classic networks are peer-to-peer. IoT networks are often many-to-one (sensors sending data to a server). RPL is optimized for this pattern.

5. Maintenance
OSPF and RIP send frequent updates. RPL slows down updates when the network is stable, saving energy.

Why RPL is better for IoT

Using a traditional routing protocol in IoT would be like putting a heavy truck on a small country road. It works for a while, but it’s inefficient and damaging.

RPL is lightweight, adaptive and efficient. It supports large numbers of devices without overloading them. It handles broken links and changing conditions without constant repairs.

That’s why RPL is used in:

• smart grids,
  
• environmental monitoring,
  
• industrial IoT networks,
  
• smart lighting systems.
  

How embeNET brings RPL to life

embeNET uses RPL as part of its wireless mesh stack. Combined with 6TiSCH scheduling and IPv6, it creates networks that are stable, predictable and energy-efficient.

In embeNET, RPL helps keep data flowing smoothly even in harsh environments – from factories to wide outdoor areas.

Moving forward with the right tools

IoT networks have special needs. They need protocols designed for their realities. RPL is one of the key tools that makes reliable, scalable, low-power wireless networks possible.

And thanks to technologies like embeNET, using RPL in real projects is now easier than ever.