Hybrid LiFi and WiFi Networks: A Survey

Abstract: To tackle the rapidly growing number of mobile devices and their expanding demands for Internet services, network convergence is envisaged to integrate different technology domains. A recently proposed and promising approach to indoor wireless communications is integrating light fidelity (LiFi) and wireless fidelity (WiFi), namely a hybrid LiFi and WiFi network (HLWNet). This type of network combines the high-speed data transmission of LiFi and the ubiquitous coverage of WiFi. In this paper, we present a survey-style introduction to HLWNets, starting with a framework including the network structure, cell deployment, multiple access schemes, modulation techniques, illumination requirements and backhauling. Then, key performance metrics and recent achievements are reviewed. Further, the unique challenges faced by HLWNets are elaborated in many research directions, including user behavior modeling, interference management, handover and load balancing. Finally, we discuss the potential of HLWNets in application areas such as indoor positioning and physical layer security.