Flexible Host-Based Handoff Selection for Next Generation Networks

In contrast to the traditional ´fixed´ network model, future devices will roam between points of attachment while maintaining the best Layer 2 connectivity. It therefore becomes critical for Mobile Nodes to determine semi-independently the most appropriate technology and Access Network for a given scenario. This supports both the dynamic selection of the ´best´ point of attachment and near-seamless handoff. Several solutions have already been proposed both within standards bodies and the wider academic community. Our aim is to define an intelligent network selection mechanism, capable of representing and enforcing explicit user-defined parameters as part of a host-based handoff mechanism. Moreover, our proposal works both independently and in cooperation with network-based handoff mechanisms.