Multi-tier delay-aware load balancing strategy for 5G HC-RAN architecture

The fifth-generation (5G) cellular network aim to provide ultra-low latency and enhance data rate service to its associated users. The centralized baseband processing of incoming traffic increases the computational complexity and end-to-end delays in a conventional C-RAN architecture. This paper proposes a multi-tier HC-RAN architecture using the edge computing concept at the Remote Radio Head (RRH) to overcome the above limitations. Further, to reduce load at the C-BBU and fronthaul, we have proposed a multi-tier delay-aware load balancing (MDALB) algorithm. The proposed algorithm is run over the EO to strategically distribute incoming flow between eRRH and C-BBU based on a load distribution ratio. The efficiency of the proposed strategy is analyzed through mathematical models and simulations based on various performance matrices. The performance parameters’ results show that the use of multi-tier processing in HC-RAN minimizes end-to-end delay and packet loss whereas increases the system throughput and packet delivery ratio.