A Multi-Path Selection Protocol in Fourth Generation Wireless Networks

Fourth generation wireless systems can be characterized by the collaboration between various radio access networks providing a broad range of services to the users anywhere, anytime. The development effort toward the integration of these technologies is called "Beyond 3G Systems" or the composite radio concept. In a multi-access radio environment provisioning of the required capacity and quality of service for the users\´ traffic flows in a cost-effective way is a challenging task. The users should be able to select among various radio access technologies that can satisfy the users\´ capacity and quality of service requirements. We present a novel protocol that allows users to discover multiple, least cost paths collectively providing the required services for end users. The selection of the new paths is based on statistical measurements of network nodes\´ past performances in providing the requested quality of service with a competitive cost.