Game-theoretic Analysis of Deployment Schemes for Mobile Network Offloading

Abstract

Mobile network connectivity is currently mainly provided by wide area technologies utilizing outdoor-located base stations. However, the provisioning of services consuming more and more data at a higher bit rate requires new network deployment strategies for mobile operators. In this context, a strategic option for the evolution of radio access networks, especially in dense urban areas, is mobile network offloading. Offloading is a win-win solution since both mobile operators and end-users are benefited by such a deployment.

In this thesis, we describe several deployment schemes for mobile offloading using femtocells or WiFi. The objective is to evaluate for each offloading solution where and when it should be deployed by mobile operators. To achieve this goal, we have led a qualitative and a game-theoretic analysis which have enabled us to figure out for each of those offloading solutions their strengths and weaknesses as well as their specificities in different competitive environments.

The qualitative analysis conducted concludes that femtocells are more likely to be deployed in business areas since they guarantee a better quality of service, meet higher security requirements and are manageable by operators even if they are installed on private places. On the other hand, WiFi networks already exist in most residential areas and consumer customers are familiar with the technology. Thus, it will probably be easy for operators to use these wireless access points to redirect part of their mobile traffic. Finally, the results of game theory propose for each offloading solution a market penetration plan.