A Handover Decision Optimization Method Based on Data-Driven MLP in 5G Ultra-Dense Small Cell HetNets

Riaz H., ÖZTÜRK S., ALDIRMAZ ÇOLAK S., Çalhan A.

Journal of Network and Systems Management, vol.33, no.2, 2025 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 33 Issue: 2
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1007/s10922-025-09903-6
  • Journal Name: Journal of Network and Systems Management
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, IBZ Online, PASCAL, ABI/INFORM, Aerospace Database, Applied Science & Technology Source, Communication Abstracts, Compendex, Computer & Applied Sciences, INSPEC, Library, Information Science & Technology Abstracts (LISTA), Metadex, Civil Engineering Abstracts
  • Keywords: 5G, Handover, HCPs, HetNets, LTE-A, Machine learning, Ultra-dense small cell networks
  • Kocaeli University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Deploying Ultra-Dense Small Cells (UDSCs) in Heterogeneous Networks (HetNets) introduces advantages such as increased capacity and expanded coverage over conventional HetNets. However, these advantages come at the expense of some challenges during the Handover (HO) process. Radio Link Failure (RLF) and Unnecessary Handover (UHO) are severe among these challenges. To address these issues, accurate setting and optimization of Handover Control Parameters (HCPs), including Handover Margin (HOM) and Time-To-Trigger (TTT), are necessary. Inaccurate adjustment and optimization of HCPs in live networks may lead to underperformance. Thus, this paper proposes a method that optimizes the obtained dataset by developing an algorithm that adjusts HOM and TTT based on related metrics such as RLF and UHO. The optimized dataset is then applied to a Multi-Layer Perception (MLP) model within a developed HO decision algorithm to predict both HOM and TTT, considering user speed, Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP), Signal to Interference plus Noise Ratio (SINR), and cell load. Simulation results showed that the proposed method outperforms the well-known A3 method in terms of Handover Rate (HOR), Handover Failure (HOF), Handover Ping-Pong (HOPP) and RLF by approximately 90.9%, 76.6%, 79.8% and 75%, respectively.