Multi-Attribute Handover in Optical Wireless and Radio Frequency Heterogeneous Networks: A Decentralized Approach

This paper presents a novel multi-attribute decision-making approach for managing handovers in Optical Wireless Communication/Radio Frequency Heterogeneous Networks (OWC/RF HetNets). The proposed method systematically evaluates potential Access Points (APs) using multiple criteria, including fixed and variable handover costs, the ratio of the node's data rate demand to the achievable rate from APs, and the ratio of the utilized capacity of APs. Using local parameters, nodes assess these attributes over a finite future horizon and construct a decision matrix. The VIKOR method is then applied to decide whether to initiate a handover to a new AP or remain connected to the current one. Simulation results show that the proposed decentralized scheme effectively manages handovers, leading to improved load balancing and reduced handover latency in OWC/RF HetNets.