Authentication Optimization for Vertical Handover in Heterogeneous Wireless Networks

In this paper, we present a scheme for reducing vertical handover delay in heterogeneous wireless networks by optimizing the network access authentication procedure as it is a heavy burden due to its latencies and overhead. Indeed, optimizing the authentication procedure while at the same time providing the same or best level of security represents a key factor in the design of the next generation of heterogeneous wireless networks. In this context, the aim of our work in this paper is to provide a security framework accounting for heterogeneity in wireless access networks without degrading the security level currently provided by each wireless system. We also demonstrate using simulation analysis the handover performance improvement provided by our proposed security frame work.