A Novel Backoff-State Assignment Algorithm for Wireless Networks to Improve Channel Utilization

Many recent studies have been dedicated to the estimation of channel utilization of networks deploying IEEE 802.11 MAC protocols. A common finding in these studies is that as the number of wireless nodes increases in a carrier sensing zone, the channel utilization decreases. In this paper we identify a cause for channel utilization drop and propose a novel backoff-state assignment algorithm to alleviate the problem. Also, we develop an analytical model for a node using the proposed backoff-state assignment algorithm. Using the model we show that the proposed MAC can provide higher channel utilization than the original MAC for both basic and RTS/CTS modes of operation.