Supervisor

Abstract

Abstract. This thesis examines the current techniques in LTE-WiFi data handover. Handovers take place when a mobile device switches from one network to another. It is interesting to look at methods to offload the rather expensive mobile data connections to the cheaper WiFi (home) networks. This transition is usually not seamless. A good example is when you start a streaming video whilst on mobile data and a known WiFi network appears. Your mobile device automatically connects to the WiFi network and the streaming video stops. These so-called vertical handovers have not been made seamless yet. This thesis compares several techniques that operate on different layers of the OSI model. To facilitate vertical handover, it is useful to know how horizontal handovers work. This kind of handover occurs when, for example, a mobile phone switches from one cell tower to another. Contrary to vertical handover, horizontal handover occurs practically seamless. Horizontal handovers in both LTE and WiFi networks are discussed, to give a heads up for the problems that arise for vertical handovers. Vertical handovers can be done at different points in the OSI model. This thesis covers solutions that have been devised on a few of these layers. Th