Optimization of Cognitive Radio networks performance using policies definition

Abstract

The Cognitive Radio (CR) is able to adapt its operation to maximize an assumed utility function. It can be performed by appropriate resource management, according to the collected electromagnetic situation awareness. One of the most important features of the CR is the Dynamic Spectrum Access (DSA), where the CR have some autonomy to make decisions about the spectrum usage. First, the CR must know common laws and regulations concerning spectrum access prescribed by the regulator and must obey them in the decision making process. The typical way to define CR what, when and where should or must be done is providing a policy. The spectrum policy is not only one which drives the CR behaviour. In this paper we describe a set of polices, which can be used to control the CR work at different levels. We also present how to use policies to tune the CR decision making process. We focus on operational usage of the policies implemented in CR, and operational assessment of services used in different types of missions, by definition of the mission service utility function. Furthermore we compare our theoretical analyses with simulation results and practical network implementation during real missions and military exercises.