Radio Access Network (RAN) technology is the most critical part of the capacity planning of 4G mobile networks, which are usually dimensioned for peak traffic conditions. Furthermore, the RAN infrastructure is responsible for more than 80% of the energy consumption of mobile networks.
A promising approach to increase the network capacity and simultaneously reduce the energy consumption is represented by the opportunistic utilization of third party WiFi access devices, forming a Heterogeneous Mobile Network (HMN). This approach will allow mobile operators to switch customer sessions from one access technology to another, in order to better manage their networks and accommodate more appropriately the QoS requirements of their users. The research project proposed for the PhD candidate aims at designing and developing the fundamental building blocks for managing HMNs, opportunistically deployed for reducing the energy consumption of Radio Access Networks.