Flexible 5G M2M network access with cognitive RAN: Survey and design principles

In this paper, we propose the concept of cognitive radio access network (Cognitive RAN) as the guideline for 5G M2M network design. A Cognitive RAN proactively investigates RAN status and terminal requirement, and then adaptively configures radio resources to enhance system performance. As an example of Cognitive RAN, we propose a random access load estimation method to perform RAN overload resolution. Simulation results show that the method has potential to support millions of access requests with satisfactory performance in throughput and success probability. Finally, we indicate some extended applications of the load estimation method.