Abstract:
Fifth generation (5G), the currently evolving communication standard, promises better performance in terms of capability, capacity, speed, latency, etc. than recent technologies such as WiMax, LTE and LTE-Advanced. Similarly, the internet-of-things (IoT), the newly developing internet computing paradigm, has the potential for providing seamless, efficient human-device and device-device communication and connectivity. Both 5G and IoT technologies are definite key players in achieving a smart, interconnected world. However, one great limitation is that the resources needed to drive 5G and IoT technologies are extremely limited. To address this challenge, efficient solution models that optimise the use of the scarce resources are required. In this paper, an investigation into the various optimisation approaches that are being explored for addressing resource problems in 5G and IoT is carried out. The solution approaches are categorised and strengths and weaknesses are revealed, while new and exciting research directions are discussed. One of the research areas identified, namely, the aspect of spectrum availability, is addressed. In addressing the spectrum scarcity problem of 5G and IoT, a solution model is developed whereby an allotted spectrum is employed by two networks simultaneously. The results obtained from the analysis show that with such arrangement, a marked improvement in resource usage and overall productivity of the 5G and IoT network is achievable.
