UMTS and WLAN Integration: Architectural Solution and Performance

Abstract

In this paper the issue of networks interworking is faced with reference to UMTS cellular networks and IEEE 802.11 wireless local area networks. A feasible architectural solution of the integrated network is given and the possibility to serve by means of the WLAN technology also those voice calls that would be blocked by UMTS, in case of resource saturation, is investigated. The performance level provided by the integrated network in a realistic scenario is here assessed considering both IEEE 802.11a and the forthcoming IEEE 802.11e WLAN technologies for possible integration with UMTS