Game Theory-Based Network Selection Methods In Heterogeneous Wireless Networks

With the ever-evolving of mobile communication and wireless access technology, the seamless convergence of heterogeneous wireless networks will be an irresistible trend. In4G generation, in order to meet users’ever-growing requirements, network operators has strengthened the construction of network infrastructure, and the overlap of mobile cellular network and wireless access network finally forms the new pattern of current network. The diversity of heterogeneous wireless networks not only offers a new opportunity for network convergence, but also raises higher technical requirements for network access and handoffs.Under heterogeneous wireless networks, users and networks are in a two-way choice relationship. Users compare networks’performance to select the best network, considering service requirements, terminal ability and personal preference. Networks also select users which bring higher payment. Besides, networks will compete for better users, conversely users contend for good network resource. So there are also game relations between networks and users. This dissertation will focus on network selection behavior in heterogeneous wireless networks environment based on game theory method.The architecture of this dissertation includes:First, we analyze the evolution process of mobile communication and wireless technology; indicate the necessity and urgency of network convergence in heterogeneous wireless networks; describe the basic frame of network convergence; elaborate the procedure of network selection which include selection type, control mode, module constitution, etc. summarize all the methods of network selection, through comparative analysis to understand their strengths and weaknesses.Second, we study the applications of game theory in network selection, sum up the common game methods; based on participants’ category and relationship between them, the research achievements domestic and overseas are combed and analyzed.Third, we choose the game between networks as our research object, and assume the participants are entirely rational. We study the network selection influence factor in both non-cooperative and cooperative model, and analyze their network profit under equilibrium.Finally, given the participants bounded rationality in real life, we involve evolutionary game theory to study the dynamic decision of network selection, replicator is used to convey the process and analyze users’ dynamic network selection behavior.