Optimization in Handover Frequency with MOHAN Protocol during Access Point Selection in Hybrid Network

Abstract

Introduction: Visible light communication (VLC) which uses the light wave for communication is referred as Light Fidelity (Li-Fi). It works similar to that of Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi). Both communication systems have their own advantages and disadvantages but to improve indoor wireless communication, recently the hybrid Li-Fi and Wi-Fi networks (HLWNets) have received significant attention which provides high data rate and omnipresent network coverage. In hybrid network, access point (AP) selection, load balancing issues become critical due to overlapping regions of Wi-Fi and Li-Fi. The conventional methods focus on higher handover frequency at the cost of network throughput.

Objectives: To Design efficient handover policies we need to focus on many challenges such as reduction in handover frequency, justifying the light path blockage, reducing delay in communication, issues with interference, and reduction in data loss.

Methods: A novel multi objective handover (MOHAN) protocol is proposed which performs specific type of handover based on integrated score of mobility speed and Received Signal Power (RSP).

Results: Results show that novel MOHAN when compared with previous methods improves average throughput by 12%.

Conclusions: The proposed method achieves 0.72 times reduction in average handover frequency, delay and computational complexity when compared with earlier methods.