A Vertical Handoff Algorithm for Maritime Communication in Heterogeneous Networks

Maritime communication has the characteristics of poor signal strength and stability, only a single network cannot meet its actual needs. The heterogeneous network is often used to provide services. Vertical handoff is the key of heterogeneous network fusion, and its performance will directly affect the continuity of communication and the degree of seamless network coverage. In this paper, a vertical handoff algorithm for heterogeneous networks is proposed based on the combination of the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and the entropy weight method (EWM). A utility function is constructed based on the combination of subjective weight and objective weight, and the optimal access network is determined according to the function value, then vertical handoff is carried out. The simulation results show that the proposed algorithm considers the fairness and effectiveness of maritime communication vertical handoff effectively. It can reduce the ping-pong effect and ensure service stability and service quality.