A multi-classifiers-based approach for vertical handoff process in wireless heterogeneous networks: Retrospective and prospective

Heterogeneous networks allow mobile nodes to take advantage of best radio facilities for their coexisting connections. Vertical handover (VHO) between them is required to perform Always Best Connected (ABC). VHO is one of the most challenging research issues for wireless networks. The traditional decision making schemes cannot meet the VHO requirements of mobile networks, and the performance may degrade severely due to the unique characteristics of mobile networking. Therefore, optimized handover management schemes, developed specifically for heterogeneous wireless networks are required. In order achieve an optimum VHO decision, this paper propose a solution to the tough VHO decision problem through a novel approach based on multiple classifiers application. Our aim is to survey recent development of this field and to present the prospective of utilizing statistical classifiers to handle the challenging VHO requirement. The architecture design of the proposed approach is presented. Various components that constitute the road map toward development of the multi-classifier based VHO scheme are discussed.