A utility-based network selection scheme for multiple services in heterogeneous networks

It is a trend to integrate different wireless access networks into heterogeneous networks in next generation wireless networks. Network selection and QoS support for multiservices are two of the most significant issues in heterogeneous wireless networks (HWN). In this paper, we propose a utility-based network selection scheme for HWN, where the price mechanism acting as a lever system guides users to select the most efficient network and controls the allocation of network resources. Simulation results show that the proposed scheme can achieve more total utilities than traditional schemes for the whole networks. The proposed scheme can also balance traffic load between different networks and effectively avoid network congestion while still guarantees QoS for real-time users.