Distributed spectrum assignment for cognitive networks with heterogeneous spectrum opportunities

Abstract

This paper presents a distributed and localized interference-aware channel assignment framework for multi-radio wireless mesh networks in a cognitive network environment. The availability of multiple interfaces and channels in wireless devices is expected to enhance network throughput in wireless mesh networks. A notable design issue in such networks is how to dynamically assign available channels to multiple radio interfaces for maximizing effective network throughput by minimizing interference. The proposed framework uses a novel interference estimation method by utilizing distributed conflict graphs on a per-interface basis. Presented results obtained via simulation studies in 802.11 based multi-radio mesh networks indicate that for both homogeneous and heterogeneous primary networks, the proposed protocol can facilitate a large increase in network throughput in comparison with a Common Channel Assignment mechanism that is used as a benchmark in the literature. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. This paper presents a distributed and localized interference-aware channel assignment framework for multi-radio wireless mesh in a cognitive network environment. The proposed framework uses a novel interference estimation method by utilizing distributed conflict graphs to dynamically assign available channels to interfaces for maximizing effective network throughput by minimizing interference. Results obtained via simulation studies in 802.11 based mesh networks indicate that for both homogeneous and heterogeneous primary networks, the proposed protocol can facilitate a large increase in network throughput. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.