Optimization of ARQ Protocols in Interference Networks with QoS Constraints

Abstract: We study optimal transmission strategies in interfering wireless networks, under Quality of Service constraints. A buffered, dynamic network with multiple sources is considered, and sources use a retransmission strategy in order to improve packet delivery probability. The optimization problem is formulated as a Markov Decision Process, where constraints and objective functions are ratios of time-averaged cost functions. The optimal strategy is found as the solution of a Linear Fractional Program, where the optimization variables are the steady-state probability of state-action pairs. Numerical results illustrate the dependence of optimal transmission/interference strategies on the constraints imposed on the network.