Extending Network Utility Maximization to Random, Time Varying Environments in Mobile Ad Hoc Networks

We describe Wireless Network Utility Maximization, WNUM, and compare its performance to traditional NUM along the dimensions of rate, delay and reliability under flat fading. Both coded and uncoded links are considered as are networks of interfering links. In each case, WNUM is shown to offer superior performance in simulations operating under Rayleigh fading. WNUM uses optimal policies to adapt to changing channel conditions. A general method for finding optimal policies is presented that is sample based and that makes no assumptions about the distribution of channel states.