A Simulation Model of IEEE802.11b for Performance Analysis of Wireless LAN Protocols

The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of the IEEE802.11b simulation model implemented by using OMNet++ simulation framework. The model is suitable for performance evaluation and investigation of wireless networks. There are two main state patterns which are part of the model specifying the CSMA/CA procedure and frame exchange sequences between stations. These are critical major sections of the IEEE 802.11b standard for sharing the communication medium and therefore their accurate modelling is important for simulation based performance analysis of wireless networks. An example network consisting of a mobile station moving through a series of access points is used to demonstrate the model’s capabilities. The handover behaviour is consistent with theoretical results and will be used in our further research for testing higher layer performance involving mobility. Keywords—IEEE802.11b, OMNeT++, Simulation