Cross-layer optimization of transport protocols over wireless networks

In this paper, we demonstrate how transport layer protocols - especially TCP - can benefit from the ideas of cross-layer protocol design in the context of wireless networks. We argue that when each layer in the protocol hierarchy adjusts its behavior based on the relevant information from other layers, the system as a whole could attain a much better performance than is otherwise possible. We have validated these claims by using an EGPRS testbed (not a simulator) and show significant performance gains of our scheme.