Overview

3G wireless networks, as defined by 3GPP and 3GPP2 are seeing increased deployment with broadband-like capabilities. The IEEE 802.16 standard, which has recently been finalized by the IEEE 802 committee, is a broadband wireless MAN data network capable of data rates of up to 120 Mbps. While 3G networks provide wide-area coverage and strong support for mobility, networks based on the IEEE 802.16 standard (“802.16 networks”) provide significantly higher data rates, but limited mobility. Therefore, the integration of these two networks will provide users with quality wireless connectivity regardless of time, location and the type of wireless service offered in the area. By integrating the 3G and 802.16 wireless networks, users will experience seamless and transparent wireless connectivity in more places and with better service than what can be offered by a single type of network. Moreover, while 3G networks are widely deployed, 802.16 networks are just entering the market. Integrating the two networks will not only provide users with broadband as well as extended coverage that they require, but also facilitate the deployment of 802.16 networks by allowing them to leverage the existing base of 3G networks.

We propose a novel architecture for integrating 3G and 802.16 networks that provides QoS across different networks while also providing seamless mobility.

Design Principles

1. Require no modifications to the existing 3G and 802.16 standards.

2. Leverage existing protocols and standards.

3. Provide QoS in home and roaming networks.

4. Provide user and session mobility.

5. Allow each network to operate in both integrated and stand-alone modes.

This research work is supported by grants from:


National Science Foundation	Army Research Office	Microsoft Corporation