Quality of service in GPRS/EDGE mobile radio networks

An advanced QoS strategy comprising 3GPP QoS parameters along with operator specific weighting factors is used to define the appropriate QoS priority of each service type and user profile. A deterministic up- and downgrading strategy as well as admission control is applied to ensure both a minimum service level, defined by the operator for low-priority services, and a full bandwidth for delay time sensitive services and premium users. The simulation results show that, especially in highly loaded and even overloaded GSM/GPRS/EDGE networks, the introduction of QoS provides significant benefits for the end user and offers means to increase the service revenues according to the charging policy adopted by the network operator. The introduction of an appropriate QoS strategy is the prerequisite for an overlay deployment strategy of GSM/EDGE and UMTS. The efficiency of QoS management is crucial for all mobile network technologies and has high impact on fulfilling the demands of mobile subscribers with continuously growing expectations.