Fog computing has gained prominence as a transformative paradigm for the Internet of Things (IoT), overcoming the limitations of traditional cloud computing by enabling decentralised processing, storage, and communication at the network edge. This study delves into the orchestration network hierarchy and communication patterns within fog computing environments, utilising the Routing Protocol for Low-Power and Lossy Networks (RPL). The aim is to enhance network performance and reliability through hierarchical orchestration and dynamic rank-based device management. Employing the NetSim simulation tool, this paper not only constructs and analyses a network topology incorporating RPL but also evaluates its impact on various performance metrics, including packet loss, packet delivery ratio (PDR), jitter, delay, and throughput. The results indicate that while RPL contributes to network stability and reliability, it also introduces notable overhead, resulting in increased jitter, delay, and reduced throughput. Packet loss initially spikes and fluctuates periodically, and PDR stabilises around 0.8 before declining. Delay increases in most applications with RPL, with App1 at 9083 μs, App2 at 13383 μs, App3 at 9345 μs, and App4 remaining constant at 37.88 μs. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the impact of RPL on network performance and offers practical insights for optimising communication protocols and hierarchical orchestration, which are crucial for improving the reliability and scalability of IoT networks in real-world applications. These insights can directly inform the design of robust and scalable IoT systems, improving real-world deployments in smart cities, healthcare, and industrial automation.