A survey on MAC protocols in OSA networks

Opportunistic spectrum access (OSA) networks have emerged as a hot research topic following the publication of Mitola’s seminal paper on cognitive radio network. Success of such networks will depend on efficient spectrum sensing techniques as well as effective medium access control protocols that will offer efficient mechanisms for dynamic spectrum allocation, coordination and management of spectrum heterogeneity. Work on such issues have just started and is still in a rudimentary stage. The main purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive review of the research done at the MAC layer of the OSA networks, especially with reference to ad hoc network design and spark more research in this area. A classification of the MAC layer protocols used in OSA networks is provided, and the essential features of the different MAC layer protocols for OSA networks are thoroughly analyzed and compared. Finally, open research issues for the MAC layer are discussed.