Intelligent Wireless Spectrum Sharing Framework for LAA‐LTE/WiFi Coexistence Systems

ABSTRACT Utilizing licensed assisted access (LAA) for cellular long‐term evolution (LTE) presents a viable solution to address the growing issue of limited wireless spectrum. Nevertheless, realizing the advantages of LTE‐LAA requires a fair coexistence framework to ensure harmonious operation alongside existing WiFi networks. This study explores how collaborative and coexistent strategies between WiFi and cellular technologies in unlicensed bands can enhance the capacity of heterogeneous wireless networks. To this end, we focus on optimizing spectrum allocation to boost the performance of systems where LAA‐LTE and WiFi networks operate together. By using the carrier aggregation technology, the unlicensed bands can be appropriately distributed to individual mobile devices. Our approach integrates a distributional reinforcement learning algorithm and three distinct one‐to‐many bargaining solutions, enabling adaptive responses to various wireless environments. Based on the learning and bargaining methodologies, cellular and WiFi access points act cooperatively with each other to enhance conflicting performance criteria. The core innovation of our method lies in leveraging hybrid optimization strategies to their fullest potential while simultaneously achieving mutual agreement among different network entities through collaborative mechanisms. The simulation results confirm the efficiency of the proposed hybrid control strategy and validate its overall effectiveness.