Handover in Hybrid LiFi and WiFi Networks

Abstract

Light Fidelity (LiFi) is a form of Visible Light Communication (VLC) that provides high-speed, bidirectional and fully networked wireless communication systems using low power Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) light bulbs. As a reliable, license-free, high-speed and fully bi-directional wireless networked, LiFi is a potential technology to the Radio Frequency (RF) based systems and beyond mobile networks. As the spectrum utilized by Li-Fi does not overlap with that of used by the RF, a hybrid LiFi and wireless fidelity (WiFi) networks can provide high-speed data transmission that will improve the Quality of Service (QoS) and Quality Experience (Qoe) of the internet users. However, in such hybrid network systems, intermittent light-path blockages and user mobility may degrade the system throughput due to frequent handover among the networks. Different mechanisms to mitigate the frequent handover issue in hybrid LiFi and WiFi networks have been proposed in the literature. This paper provides an overview concept of hybrid handover in LiFi/WiFi networks. Furthermore, related works done in this field are also discussed. Finally, comparison between LiFi and WiFi technologies is also provided.