Optimization of access points selection and resource allocation in heterogeneous wireless network

Abstract

In this paper, we tackle the problem of access point selection and resource allocation in heterogeneous networks including 3G/4G and Wi-Fi. We study the user satisfaction optimization in terms of throughput and blocking rate. More precisely, the aim is to associate users with the optimal Radio Access Technology (RAT) and to allocate them the optimal number of Resource Units (RUs) based on their requested services and contracts. Starting with a non-linear problem, we re-formulate it into a Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP) and assess it on a realistic network configuration. We also compare it with a legacy strategy of selection and allocation. We show that our approach improves the user satisfaction while maintaining a reasonable blocking rate.