TCP connection management through combined use of terrestrial and satellite IP-Based links

In the view of converged fast-wired and fast-wireless networks (5G) with a transparent multi homed point of access to the Internet, new scenarios must be considered in the near future. In particular, this paper focuses on an Internet access leveraging simultaneously on different technologies such as ADSL, cable, WiFi, 3G/4G, satellite links, to offer a combined connectivity service. Some solutions already exist and, together with specific protocols and architectural changes, they may combine all available links to offer an enhanced connectivity. In the presented study, possible architectures are described, highlighting different strategies aimed at the optimal handling of TCP connections. An accurate test campaign was performed through the NS-3 simulation software to evaluate TCP performance when multiple links are available, considering links with similar characteristics and links with very different configurations, such as terrestrial and satellite ones.