Automatic channel and APs allocation in WiFi networks using ray tracing techniques and particle swarm optimization

A planning tool that combines the strengths of a propagation prediction tool, CINDOOR, and a particle swarm optimization algorithm (PSO) is presented in this work when applied to optimize wireless networks resources prior to their deployment. For an arbitrary scenario, the approach proposed performs channel allocation, choosing the best set of access points (APs) to be used, including their activation or deactivation to meet a required quality of service (QoS). The CINDOOR software tool provides the heuristic method with data containing the signal level at each potential receiver point inside a meshed area, associated with any of the potential APs considered. Then, a stochastic binary PSO algorithm is used to meet the following requirements altogether: minimize the interference, maximize the signal-to-interference ratio (SIR) and activate as few APs as possible to maximize the coverage area and reduce interferences. Representative results are included, showing the usefulness of the approach proposed for a real wireless network, considering a certain QoS.