Adaptive techniques for WLAN throughput improvement

WLANs are envisioned as one of the cornerstones of future generation wireless communication technologies (both 3G and 4G). They owe their popularity to the ability to provide high data rates in strategic locations (hotspots). The paper analyzes the throughput performance of IEEE 802.11b WLAN and investigates the influence of channel conditions (signal-to-noise ratio) on the definition of link layer parameters in order to achieve maximum throughput. The system performance can be significantly improved with an adaptation applied to link layer techniques achieved through extensive interlayer information exchanges. The adaptive link layer techniques are used to mitigate various channel conditions, optimise system behaviour and provide seamless connectivity for customers.