Abstract: A communication system processing element comprises a processor coupled to a memory and implements at least a portion of a distributed expert system. The distributed expert system is arranged in at least two hierarchical levels, including an upper level comprising a central controller, and a lower level comprising a plurality of local agents each associated with one or more communication devices of the system.

Abstract: A technique is disclosed for improving the process of finding a location in a network from which to communicate with a wireless terminal and with a particular level of service. The illustrative embodiment of the present invention uses measurements associated with one or more wireless terminals in the network to determine a suitable location. The measurements are performed on electromagnetic signals radiated by each wireless terminal or from another source and are evaluated against characteristics such as throughput, error rate, and latency.