Client controlled network selection

It is likely that an ensemble of overlapping heterogeneous wireless networks will be required to provide ubiquitous data communications. In this scenario, the mobile user´s choice of network will directly affect the applications´ performance. The paper examines this decision, and proposes that it is made by the client application by considering network characteristics and cost. This is facilitated by a modified version of SCTP (stream control transmission protocol). Using simulation results, we show that a marked improvement in application performance is possible by monitoring the available networks, and making the appropriate selection.