Fuzzy-based handover decision with multi-attribute auctions in heterogeneous network environments

In next generation wireless networks mobile users will be able to roam between heterogeneous networks, using terminals with multiple access interfaces. An important issue in such a heterogeneous environment is the provisioning of seamless mobility to users across heterogeneous access networks, according to the Always Best Connected and Served (ABC&S) model. Various vertical handover decision strategies have been proposed in the literature recently to answer ABC&S requirements, using advanced tools. In this paper we introduce a handover decision scheme that deploys fuzzy logic to address the uncertainty that is innate in some decision parameters. Furthermore, we elaborate on how the networks collect and adjust their resources that are broadcasted to the mobile terminals; we also explain how the mobile terminals rank the available offers by the networks. A handover is performed only if a network's offer is considered more satisfactory than current status. Finally, a discussion is made through numerical paradigm and simulations, highlighting the proposed scheme's effectiveness. © 2011 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.