Authors:
Glenford Mapp
1
;
David N. Cottingham
2
;
Fatema Shaikh
1
;
Pablo Vidales
3
;
Leo Patanapongpibul
4
;
Javier Balioisian
5
and
Jon Crowcroft
2
Affiliations:
1
School of Computing Science, Middlesex University, United Kingdom
;
2
Computer Laboratory, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
;
3
Deutsche Telekom Laboratories, Germany
;
4
Samsung Electronics Research Institute, United Kingdom
;
5
Network Management Research Centre, Ireland
Keyword(s):
Heterogeneous Networking, Vertical Handover, OSI Model, Mobility.
Related
Ontology
Subjects/Areas/Topics:
4G Systems
;
Adaptive Wireless Network Protocols
;
GPRS and UMTS
;
Mobile Software and Services
;
Multimedia and QoS over Wireless Networks
;
Telecommunications
;
Ubiquitous Wireless Services and Protocols
;
Wireless and Mobile Technologies
;
Wireless Information Networks and Systems
Abstract:
The growth over the last decade in the use of wireless networking devices has been explosive. Soon many devices will have multiple network interfaces, each with very different characteristics. We believe that a framework that encapsulates the key challenges of heterogeneous networking is required. Like a map clearly helps one to plan a journey, a framework is needed to help us move forward in this unexplored area. The approach taken here is similar to the OSI model in which tightly defined layers are used to specify functionality, allowing a modular approach to the extension of systems and the interchange of their components, whilst providing a model that is more oriented to heterogeneity and mobility.