Comparative Analysis of Water-Filling and Round-Robin Algorithms in Resource Allocation for Multi-User OFDMA Systems

This study investigates the performance of Water-Filling (WF) and Round-Robin (RR) algorithms in dynamic resource allocation for multi-user OFDMA systems, focusing on key metrics such as Bit Error Rate (BER), sum capacity, throughput, fairness, and power efficiency. Utilizing a simulated LTE communication environment, the WF algorithm demonstrates superior performance in maximizing sum capacity and throughput by efficiently allocating power to subcarriers with favourable channel conditions. Conversely, the RR algorithm performs better in maintaining fairness by ensuring equal resource distribution across users. Simulation results show that while WF achieves higher system efficiency, it requires greater power allocation, making RR more suitable for scenarios prioritizing fairness. The insights gained from this research contribute to the optimization of resource allocation strategies in modern and future wireless networks, including 5G.