An architectural framework for seamless handoff between IEEE 802.11 and UMTS networks

Abstract

In recent years, Cellular wireless technologies like GPRS, UMTS, CDMA and Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) technologies like IEEE 802.11 have seen a quantum leap in their growth. Cellular technologies can provide data services over a wide area, but with lower data rates. WLAN technologies offer higher data rates, but over smaller areas, popularly known as `Hot Spots'. The demand for an ubiquitous data service can be fulfilled, if it is possible for the end-user to seamlessly roam between these heterogeneous technologies. In this paper, a novel framework is proposed consisting of intra-ISP network called `Intermediate Switching Network'(ISN) fused between UMTS and WLAN networks as well as data (Internet) services for providing seamless mobility without affecting user's activities. The ISN uses MPLS and Multiprotocol-BGP to switch the data traffic between UMTS to IEEE 802.11 networks, as per the movements of the user. The ISN is integrated with the UMTS network at the GGSN-3G and at the Access Point for IEEE 802.11 network respectively. The simulation result shows the improved performance of the ISN based framework over existing schemes.