Vertical handoff algorithms with QoS guarantee for 4G networks

One of main challenges of fourth generation wireless networks (4G) will be the integration of various mobile technologies such as CDMA 1xEV-DO RA, UMTS/HSDPA and WiMAX. In this paper is investigated the interoperability between the CDMA 1xEV-DO RA and the UMTS/HSDPA in the 4G context. New algorithms for vertical handoff traffic acceptance are proposed considering the link occupation, the buffer occupation and the radio signal strength (RSS). Different algorithms are evaluated through QoS metrics such as the average packet delay, the throughput and the loss percentage in function of vertical handoff traffic load. The results showed that depending on the chosen algorithm it is possible to assure the QoS of 1xEV-DO RA and UMTS/HSDPA systems and still to accept a good amount of vertical handoff traffic.