Enhancement of IEEE 802.11 Based Network Performance Using Combined Optimization of Parameters for Smart Grid Network

Wireless communication is the most resourceful invention of contemporaneous era. Communication standards are designed and engineered on the basis of layered methodology in a vertical hierarchical method. Communication standards and technologies are integral part of smart grid networks such as home, neighborhood and wide area network. These network layers use various communication standards. In this paper, IEEE 802.11 standard is considered. In the network protocol stack of IEEEE 802.11, each layer is envisioned to serve a particular functionality in collaboration with all other layers. Therefore, various functions such as transmission features, error and flow control, sequencing of data packets, synchronization, routing of data, framing, congestion control, application specific services etc. are combined by interfacing between different network layers for execution of various protocols. The primitive layered approach can be replaced by cross layer or joint optimization method using combined optimization of layers. In this approach, synergy of various layers is explored for performance enhancement. This paper includes joint optimization of PHY and MAC layer parameters for IEEE 802.11 standard using simulation approach. In this paper, home area network of smart grid technology is taken into consideration for optimization. It is anticipated to serve as a fundamental research for various applications based on IEEE 802.11 communication standard.