A system-level architecture for software-defined LTE networks
Furqan Hameed Khan, Marius Portmann · 2016
Software defined cellular networks (SDCN) are a new paradigm to modify future network architectures to enhance their performance in terms of satisfying end user demand. This paper presents and evaluates an SDN-based LTE network architecture, envisioned to solve the limitations of current LTE networks and bring several advantages in future wireless networks. The proposed architecture provides a central view for the network operator to implement new services that help in managing network resources in an efficient manner. Through a system level simulation setup, we show how our architecture can be realized and used to achieve better results in terms of load distribution in the presence of heterogeneous traffic demand. In short, the results obtained from our setup quantify the benefits achieved through better handover management which increases edge users downlink (DL) throughput, improves fairness, and reduces signaling cost.