An Integrated Framework for Seamless Soft Handoff in Ad Hoc Networks

We present an integrated architecture for seamless soft handoff in mobile ad hoc networks, where various managers residing on multiple layers are proposed to tackle handoff issues in a cross-layer and cooperative manner. At the link adaptation layer, the virtual interface provides link transparency to the upper layers and session management is handled at the interface manager. At the network layer, most IP-based ad hoc routing protocols can be accommodated. At the transport layer, the transport manager is instructed by the interface manager to adapt the transmission rate according to the new wireless link. Finally, at the application layer, the security manager handles various aspects of security concerns. Simulation results show that our approach can deliver low packet loss, low latency, and smooth handoff solutions with minimum packet overhead. Further, our research on IEEE 802.21 reveals that current media independent handover (MIH) may serve as a component in our integrated architecture. In conclusion, our work represents the first complete solution that provides seamless soft handoff in ad hoc networks with minimum service disruption