Vertical handover decision based on quality of experience in heterogeneous wireless networks

Currently, users of 4G networks, based on IP protocol, may take advantage of several opportunities for wireless connectivity in a heterogeneous scenario consisting of a range of access technologies. However, to make mobility and service perception transparent and uninterrupted between these networks it is necessary that network selection mechanisms ensure continuity of services during the vertical handover. This article proposes a selection mechanism of a wireless access network based on quality of experience (Quality of Experience - QoE) and on the traffic load of candidate networks. The scenario evaluated consists of WiMAX and Wi-Fi networks. The proposed mechanism envisages the use of IEEE 802.21 - (Media Independent Handover - MIH) to assist in the handover process. Simulation results in ns-2 using video traffic demonstrate the efficacy of the proposal, with 12,5% gain in video quality.