Quality-of-Experience for Multimedia

Chapter 2

Quality of Experience

First, this chapter presents the definitions and explanation of importance of Quality of Experience (QoE) in the network context. The Quality-of-Service (QoS)/QoE relationship and some QoE measurement methods will be also discussed. The state of art of different approaches for each layer will be described in detail.

2.1. Motivation

Nowadays, next-generation networks (NGN) trend includes deploying the fixed mobile Internet Convergence (FMIC) and migrating the traditional telecom networks to Internet Protocol (IP) technology. NGN will employ multiple networking technologies for the best network service. Network operators and service providers try to simplify network operations and management in order to offer multiple services over a single network. While NGN network experts are going to employ a common network layer protocol in core networks to accomplish the current network services, the access networks will use numerous technologies, such as WLAN, WPAN, Ethernet cable, DSL, 2G/3G/4G, LTE, WiMAX, UWB and optical fiber, to meet the diversified requirements of end users [ZHA 11]. Using a network environment with multiple operators and multiple networks, end users expect to use a heterogeneous wired and wireless high-bandwidth ubiquitous network access and diversified services. Hence, the end users have a multitude of offers that decrease service prices. Consequently, the competition between network providers increases. So, the customer is today in ...