Survey and comparison of MADM methods for network selection access in heterogeneous networks

Abstract

One of the key features of the the next generation of networks is the coexistence of multiple radio access technologies such as WIFI, WIMAX and LTE. This heterogeneous environment provides to the mobile users the possibility to use different services at any time and any where. Various multiple attribute decision making (MADM) algorithms have been proposed to manage the terminal mobility while ensuring the best continuity of services. Among the most MADM methods which are widely used for solving the network selection problem in the research literature are SAW, MEW, TOPSIS, GRA, VIKOR, DIA, E-TOPSIS and FADM. This paper evaluates the performance of eight MADM methods, that aim to ensure the seamless network selection under the principle always best connected.