Comparison of Vertical Handover Decision-Based Techniques in Heterogeneous Networks

Abstract

Industry leaders are currently setting out standards for 5G networks projected for 2020 or even sooner. Future generation networks will be heterogeneous in nature as no single network type will be capable of optimally meeting all the rapid changes in customer demands. With the advent of multi-homed devices and heterogeneous network (HetNet) solution, great concerns arise in the processes involved for successful handover. Active calls that get dropped or cases of poor quality of service experienced by mobile users can be attributed to the phenomenon of delayed handover (HO) or an outright case of an unsuccessful handover procedure. This work compares multiple criteria handover basis to its traditional single relative signal strength (RSS) base counterpart. It analyses the performance of a fuzzy-based VHO algorithm scheme in a Wi-Fi, WiMAX, UMTS and LTE integrated network using OMNeT++ event simulator. The loose coupling network architecture is adopted and simulation results analysed for the two major categories of handover; the multiple and single criteria. Results obtained show a better overall throughput, better call dropped rate and shorter handover time for the multiple criteria based decision method as compared to the single criteria based technique. This work also highlights current research trends, challenges of seamless handover and initiatives for Next Generation HetNet.