Node Position Computation Algorithms for Localization in Wireless Sensor Networks: A Systematic Literature Review

  • M. S. Mozamir
    Fakulti Teknologi Maklumat dan Komunikasi shahkhir[at]utem.edu.my
  • N. M. Salleh
    Faculty of Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security
  • R. S. Abdullah
    Faculty of Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security
  • Z. Saaya
    Fakulti Teknologi Maklumat dan Komunikasi
  • Nurul Izzatie Husna Fauzi
    Faculty of Computing
  • Dhani Ariatmanto
    Faculty of Computer Science

Abstract

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) are widely applied in domains such as environmental monitoring, healthcare, and defense, where accurate localization of sensor nodes is essential for reliable data interpretation. Despite extensive research, localization continues to face challenges related to energy consumption, scalability, and algorithmic efficiency. This paper presents a systematic review of position computation algorithms, emphasizing how different approaches address these challenges. The analysis highlights key trade-offs, such as accuracy versus energy cost and convergence speed versus computational overhead. It also identifies clear research trends, including a shift from traditional range-based and range-free methods toward hybrid and AI-assisted techniques that enhance adaptability in dynamic environments. Persistent open issues remain, notably handling mobility, achieving robustness under noisy conditions, and enabling deployment in large-scale real-world settings. By synthesizing these insights, the study clarifies the current state of WSN localization, outlines unresolved gaps, and points to future directions for energy-aware, scalable, and learning-driven solutions.

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Author Biographies

M. S. Mozamir

,
Fakulti Teknologi Maklumat dan Komunikasi

Fakulti Teknologi Maklumat dan Komunikasi, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Hang Tuah Jaya, 76100 Durian Tunggal, Melaka, Malaysia

N. M. Salleh

,
Faculty of Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security

Faculty of Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Hang Tuah Jaya, 76100 Durian Tunggal, Melaka, Malaysia

R. S. Abdullah

,
Faculty of Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security

Faculty of Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Hang Tuah Jaya, 76100 Durian Tunggal, Melaka, Malaysia

Z. Saaya

,
Fakulti Teknologi Maklumat dan Komunikasi

Fakulti Teknologi Maklumat dan Komunikasi, Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Hang Tuah Jaya, 76100 Durian Tunggal, Melaka, Malaysia

Nurul Izzatie Husna Fauzi

,
Faculty of Computing

Faculty of Computing, Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah, Pekan 26600, Pahang, Malaysia

Dhani Ariatmanto

,
Faculty of Computer Science

Faculty of Computer Science, Universitas Amikom Yogyakarta, Indonesia, Indonesia

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