Abstract: The present invention facilitates a handoff between cellular and wireless local area networks (WLANs). To facilitate a WLAN interface with the cellular network, a proxy packet control function (P-PCF) establishes a data tunnel to a packet data serving node (PDSN), as well as a WLAN association with a mobile terminal. The WLAN association is a tunnel, and is preferably implemented via an Access Router acting as a liaison between the proxy PCF and an Access Point. The Access Router and the proxy PCF establish an IP tunnel, which carries the WLAN user's PPP traffic. Handoffs between the cellular and WLAN networks are facilitated by effecting a same-PDSN, inter-PCF handoff wherein the communication session with the mobile terminal is effectively changed from between the PDSN and the proxy PCF to between the PDSN and a PCF associated with a base station controller facilitating the cellular access, and vice versa.

Abstract: The present invention facilitates a handoff between cellular and wireless local area networks (WLANs). To facilitate a WLAN interface with the cellular network, a proxy packet control function (P-PCF) establishes a data tunnel to a packet data serving node (PDSN), as well as a WLAN association with a mobile terminal. The WLAN association is a tunnel, and is preferably implemented via an Access Router acting as a liaison between the proxy PCF and an Access Point. The Access Router and the proxy PCF establish an IP tunnel, which carries the WLAN user's PPP traffic. Handoffs between the cellular and WLAN networks are facilitated by effecting a same-PDSN, inter-PCF handoff wherein the communication session with the mobile terminal is effectively changed from between the PDSN and the proxy PCF to between the PDSN and a PCF associated with a base station controller facilitating the cellular access, and vice versa.

Abstract: A radio link adapter for wireless transmission of multimedia data through a communication link between a radio access network (RAN) and a mobile station (MS), is provided. The information flow is constantly monitored to determine an information element (IE) type of service requirements and for allocating paired radio link adapters (RLAs) designed to fit the respective type of service requirements. A connection end may be initially established in the RAN or in the MS. An analyser monitors the link, detects the type of service (ToS) required, and dynamically allocates the appropriate type of RLA to the connection. There is no need to recreate the connection when selecting the adapter for transporting various types of services and therefore, the transport of the information flow of a specific ToS over the communication link is optimized, while maintaining the end-to-end quality of service (QoS).