A cross-layer autonomic architecture for QoS support in wireless networks

Cross-layering is a novel paradigm in wireless local area networks (WLAN) proposed to improve the support of QoS (Quality of Service) traffic. Many cross-layer solutions have already been developed. They diverge in the way the cross-layer concept is implemented and the type of performance gain they recommend. In parallel to cross-layering, a new network paradigm is growing: the autonomic paradigm appearing as the size and complexity of networks grow. There is a growing consensus among the research community that combining cross-layering and autonomic paradigms is, until now, the best alternative for better QoS support in WLANs. We combine cross-layering and autonomic concepts in the design of a new architecture called XLEngine (Cross-Layer Engine) having the ability to make optimizations based on local and network wide knowledge. XLEngine is implemented and simulated under the J-Sim simulator for different wireless scenarios. Simulation results show that XLEngine outperforms the classic layered architecture.