Optimal pricing solution for VoIP service in 802.16/802.11 combined networks

Abstract

Future wireless networks are envisioned to be all IP and capable of running real time applications like VoIP. IEEE 802.16 and IEEE 802.11 based networks popularly known as Wimax and Wifi are already being widely used for internet and other services. The combined Wimax/Wifi scenario can be ideal public-private partnership solution for distributing VoIP-based telephony solutions in villages using Wimax-based private backbone operator and Wifi community network for end distribution. Internet bandwidth is still a scarce resource and should be used optimally from both the user as well as backbone service provider’s point of view. Game theory can be effectively used for optimising service for both the parties in combined Wimax/Wifi scenarios. The results indicate that the utilities for both user and backbone service provider can be improved with cooperation between both parties. Third party broker agent realises cooperation between the two entities for an optimal solution. Using this approach, it is possible to obtain an optimal VoIP solution, which is beneficial for both user and backbone service provider.