Evaluation of throughput estimation models and algorithms for WLAN frequency planning

Frequency optimization is required to maximize the WLAN throughput in environments where several networks coexist. This paper evaluates four throughput estimation models and two optimization algorithms. Throughput is selected as the optimization criteria for channel assignment. Thus, the result of a throughput estimation model is used as an input for an optimization algorithm. The target is a frequency plan that maximizes multi-cell WLAN throughput. The throughput estimation models are based on radio spectrum usage, practical throughput measurements, WLAN protocol behavior, and theoretical coverage estimations. The models use separate functions for defining the minimum channel distance. In the evaluation, Genetic Algorithm (GA) and a distributed optimization algorithm produce the final frequency plan. A dedicated simulator has been implemented for comparing the throughput estimation models. Usage of a throughput estimation model for frequency optimization in a real WLAN implementation has also been evaluated with a hardware prototype. As overall simulation results, the evaluated throughput estimation models did not produce significant WLAN throughput improvements compared to each other. Still, the selection of the throughput estimation model and optimization algorithm pair is significant, since certain combinations cause poor results.