A framework for multiple wireless services in heterogeneous wireless networks

Abstract

As the variety of wireless network services, such as WLAN, WiBro, cdma2000, and HSDPA, and the range of choices of wireless services for users have expanded, MCoA (Multiple Care of Addresses) concepts that enable users to use wireless interfaces simultaneously have been presented in IETF MONAMI6 WG. In this scheme, users can access several networks simultaneously by using multiple wireless interfaces. Various wireless connection technologies continue to advance as they are connected and integrated to All-IP-based core networks and, at the same time, heterogeneous networks are being overlaid according to the coverage of the wireless connection technologies. Under such circumstances, needs for an integrated architecture have arisen and thus, a multiple wireless services framework is required that effectively manages heterogeneous networks which coexist with next generation networks for 4G. In this paper, a multiple wireless services framework is suggested considering the current wireless service environment. The modified Multiple Care of Addresses helps to select the most effective network by considering characteristics of various interfaces as well as users' preferences. In addition, the framework introduces techniques to minimize the packet loss caused by handover operations.