A cross-layer UMTS/WLAN handover algorithm using optimized MIH

Nowadays, WLAN Hotspots can provide various wireless services in any given time or place. With the development of multi-mode terminals, the researches on WLAN technology as the extension of UMTS are undergoing. The IEEE 802.21 standard is a candidate which can provide solutions for seamless handover among heterogeneous networks. In this paper, we propose an enhanced UMTS/WLAN handover mechanism with modification on MIH (Media Independent Handover) and the handover decision algorithm. From the simulation results obtained by Network Simulation-2.29, the better practicality of the proposed approach is verified.