WLAN/3G interworking architectures for next generation hybrid data networks

Currently, there is a strong need for integrating WLANs with 3G data networks and develop hybrid mobile data networks, capable of ubiquitous data services and very high data rates in hotspots. This paper addresses this need by proposing and discussing some architecture capable to provide interworking between WLANs and 3G networks and meet the requirements of two typical scenarios, which feature the highest market interest. These architectures can enable 3G subscribers to benefit from high throughput IP connectivity in strategic locations and also to maintain service consistency across several radio access technologies, such as IEEE 802.11, HiperLAN/2, UTRAN, GERAN, cdma2000, etc.