Conflict graph-based model for IEEE 802.11 networks: A Divide-and-Conquer approach

Abstract WLANs (Wireless Local Area Networks) based on the IEEE 802.11 standard have become ubiquitous in our daily lives. We typically augment the number of APs (Access Points) within a WLAN to extend its coverage and transmission capacity. This leads to network densification, which in turn demands some form of coordination between APs so as to avoid potential misconfigurations. In this paper, we describe a performance modeling method that can provide guidance for configuring WLANs and be used as a decision-support tool by a network architect or as an algorithm embedded within a WLAN controller. The proposed approach estimates the attained throughput of each AP, as a function of the WLAN’s conflict graph, the AP loads, the frame sizes, and the link transmission rates. Our modeling approach employs a Divide-and-Conquer strategy which breaks down the original problem into multiple sub-problems, whose solutions are then combined to provide the solution to the original problem. We conducted extensive simulation experiments using the ns-3 simulator that show the model’s accuracy is generally good with relative errors typically less than 10%. We then explore two issues of WLAN configuration: choosing a channel allocation for the APs and enabling frame aggregation on APs.