x-AppMonitor μAgent: a tool for QoS measurements in cellular networks

Design, optimization and assurance of GSM and 3G networks are becoming increasingly costly as a consequence of factors such as the high numbers of subscribers, the new and complex traffic patterns and the coexistence of different radio access technologies. One interesting indicator of network performance in a particular area is the quality of service perceived by the final user for specific services. This user perception is gaining importance with regard to services like short messaging or IP-based applications. In this scenario, traditional measurement tools employed by operators could be replaced by the new mobile phones, because they can be used as an environment where measurements can be done directly. This paper reports our experiences developing x-AppMonitor muAgent, a network performance monitoring tool which is executed in off-the-shelf mobile terminals and measures quality of service perceived by users. Practical results will be provided.