Access network selection using combined fuzzy control and MCDM in heterogeneous networks

In the next generation of heterogeneous wireless networks, selecting the most optimal and promising access network is an important consideration for overall networks stability, resource utilization, user satisfaction, and quality of service (QoS) provisioning. This paper proposes a new and generic algorithm for access network selection in the heterogeneous wireless environments. The proposed algorithm uses a combined fuzzy logic control and multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) system to achieve scalable, flexible, simple, general, and adaptable solution. The first layer of the algorithm uses small fuzzy logic based subsystems, where each subsystem represents one input criteria. The fuzzy logic is used to overcome the complexity and fuzziness associated with the heterogeneous wireless environments and their services and to make the proposed algorithm simpler and more adaptable. In the second layer, the algorithm uses a MCDM technique that takes the first layer output as its input. The MCDM ensures that all of the different characteristics and view points are taken into account when making the radio access network selection.