Ubiquity of Client Access in Heterogeneous Access Environment

Abstract

With popularization of mobile computing and diverse offer of mobile devices providing functionality comparable to personal computers, the necessity of providing network access for such users cannot be disputed. The requirement is further reinforced by emergence of general purpose mobile operating systems which provide their full functionality only with network connectivity available and popular XaaS (Everything as a Service) approach. In this situation and combined with the fact that most Internet-based services are able to function efficiently even in best effort environment, requirement of ubiquity of network access becomes one of the most important elements of today’s computing environment. This paper presents a general overview of the the vast group of mechanisms and technologies utilized in modern attempts to efficiently provide ubiquity on network access in heterogeneous environment of today’s access systems. It starts with division of users interested in ubiquitous network access into broad groups of common interest, complete with their basic requirements and access characteristics, followed by a survey of both already popular and new wireless technologies suitable to provide such access. Then a general discussion of most important challenges which must be addressed while attempting to fulfill the above goal is provided, addressing topics such as handover control and mobility management.