An SDN-based seamless convergence approach of WLAN and LTE networks

Evolutionary 4G/5G Network Architecture Assisted Efficient Handover Signaling

“…First, we consider the current and past research efforts that provision a comprehensive study into the main stages of handover management, i.e., handover decision, handover preparation, handover execution/failure and handover completion. Notably, [10]- [14] provide sufficient background and analysis into these different stages. In [10] a detailed survey on the various aspects of handover management such as execution phase, decision phase and system information collection has been provided.…”

“…Next, in [12]- [14], SDN based approaches have been considered for mobility management. Specifically, in [12], the SDN controller along side a double V-LAN tagging approach is utilized to minimize the path switching operation which would reduce the latency and core network signaling.…”

“…By policies, here we mean a collection of network, user and application parameters that are utilized in generating a handover decision. Additionally, in [14], an approach towards the seamless mobility management between LTE and W-LAN networks has been provided. This approach involves splitting the CP and DP, via SDN based approach, and migrating the CP to the cloud based infrastructure.…”

“…However, most research efforts similar to [10]- [14] do not emphasize on the criticality of handover preparation and failure phase. Additionally, they do not explore their latency, transmission cost and processing cost contribution to the overall handover management operations.…”

“…Consequently, many current research efforts, such as [6]- [14], have provided studies and methods that will facilitate the enhancement/optimization of the aforesaid handover phases. However, the handover preparation and failure phases remain relatively unexplored in the studies referenced above and similar to them.…”