Handover decision with multi-access edge computing in 6G networks: A survey
Jahandar S, Shayea I, Gures E, El-Saleh AA, Ergen M, Alnakhli M (2025)
Publication Type: Journal article, Review article
Publication year: 2025
Journal
Book Volume: 25
Article Number: 103934
DOI: 10.1016/j.rineng.2025.103934
Abstract
Multi-Access Edge Computing (MEC) is a key technology in the evolution of mobile networks, especially for fifth and sixth generation (5G and 6G). MEC optimises communication and computational resources by hosting application processes close to the user equipment (UE) at the network edge, improving communication reliability and stability while reducing latency. A key feature of MEC is its ultra-low latency response, enabling real-time applications in next-generation networks. However, the mobility of UEs and the limited coverage of edge servers can lead to frequent handovers during the offloading process. As a result, advanced handover management strategies are required to jointly optimise handover and computation offloading. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of handover decision making in MEC systems, with particular emphasis on the challenges and solutions associated with the integration of communication, computation and mobility management. We examine the current state of research, provide an analysis of existing studies, and identify key gaps in the literature. The novelty of this work lies in its holistic approach to exploring the interdependencies between handover management, mobility control and computation offloading, while proposing future research directions. This work provides a forward-looking perspective on how these interrelated issues are likely to evolve, particularly in the context of future mobile networks using MEC technology.
Involved external institutions
Istanbul Technical University / İstanbul Teknik Üniversitesi (İTÜ)
Turkey (TR)
Czech Technical University in Prague / České vysoké učení technické v Praze
Czech Republic (CZ)
A’Sharqiyah University (ASU) / جــــــامـعـة الـشـرقـــــــيـة
Oman (OM)
Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University (PSAU) / جامعة سطام بن عبدالعزيز
Saudi Arabia (SA)
Turkey (TR)
Czech Technical University in Prague / České vysoké učení technické v Praze
Czech Republic (CZ)
A’Sharqiyah University (ASU) / جــــــامـعـة الـشـرقـــــــيـة
Oman (OM)
Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University (PSAU) / جامعة سطام بن عبدالعزيز
Saudi Arabia (SA)
How to cite
APA:
Jahandar, S., Shayea, I., Gures, E., El-Saleh, A.A., Ergen, M., & Alnakhli, M. (2025). Handover decision with multi-access edge computing in 6G networks: A survey. Results in Engineering, 25. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rineng.2025.103934
MLA:
Jahandar, Saeid, et al. "Handover decision with multi-access edge computing in 6G networks: A survey." Results in Engineering 25 (2025).
BibTeX: Download