Multiattribute Access Selection Algorithm Supporting Service Characteristics and User Preferences in Heterogeneous Wireless Networks

Abstract

In heterogeneous wireless networks (HWNs), various wireless networks have signal ranges that overlap and cover each other. Enabling mobile users to access the most suitable network is one of the research topics on HWNs. This paper designs a multiattribute access selection algorithm supporting service characteristics and user preferences in HWNs, which includes five calculation modules: network attribute utility value, network attribute weight, network attribute score, user preference value, and candidate network comprehensive score. In addition, the algorithm proposed in this paper integrates the utility theory, fuzzy analysis hierarchy process (FAHP), fuzzy logic, and multiattribute decision-making (MADM) methods for a complete access selection scheme that considers different network performances, service characteristics, and user preferences. The simulation results show that the algorithm proposed in this paper can allow users to select the most suitable network while obtaining higher gains and reducing user handover between different networks.