Erbil Polytechnic University

Erbil Technical Engineering College

Information System Engineering Department

Report on:
distributed network (cellular
networks)

Prepared By:
Elaf Nazm Anwar
Alla Abdulwahid
Ruya Saleem
Shanga Bashir
Asma Amir

Group: B Theory

Supervised By:
Mr. Muhammed Qasim

2024 - 2025
Table of Contents
Introduction to Distributed Networks ........................................................................ 2

Definition of Cellular Networks .................................................................................. 2

Cellular Network Architecture .................................................................................... 3

Working of Cellular Networks .................................................................................... 3

Advantages of Cellular Networks .............................................................................. 4

Challenges of Cellular Networks ............................................................................... 4

Cellular Network Technologies .................................................................................. 4

Example of Cellular Network Usage .......................................................................... 5

Conclusion .................................................................................................................. 6

References .................................................................................................................. 7

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Introduction to Distributed Networks
A distributed network is a type of network architecture where processing and resources
are distributed across multiple nodes, devices, or servers instead of being centralized
in a single location. This design allows for better scalability, reliability, and flexibility, as
resources can be added or reallocated as needed. Distributed networks support
various communication models, such as peer-to-peer and client-server, enabling
diverse applications like cloud computing, social networks, and cellular
communication.

Definition of Cellular Networks

A cellular network is a type of distributed network specifically designed for mobile
communication. It divides a geographic area into smaller sections called "cells," each
served by a base station with its own antenna and transmission frequencies. The
cells are interconnected, enabling mobile devices to maintain continuous
communication as they move between different areas. This structure allows cellular
networks to manage large numbers of users efficiently and provides wide coverage for
mobile devices like smartphones and tablets.

Figure 1: Cellular network architecture for a mobile distributed system

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Cellular Network Architecture
Cellular networks consist of several interconnected components that work together to
deliver voice and data services. The architecture can be divided into three main
sections:

Core Network

The core network, also known as the backbone, is responsible for managing data
transmission between the base stations and external networks, such as the internet or
the public switched telephone network (PSTN). It comprises various subsystems for
routing calls, data sessions, and performing mobility management.

Radio Access Network (RAN)

The Radio Access Network (RAN) includes the infrastructure used to connect mobile
devices to the core network. It consists of base stations that handle the radio
communication between user devices and the network, ensuring that voice and data
traffic is appropriately managed and transferred.

Cellular Base Stations and Cells

Base stations are positioned in a grid-like pattern to provide overlapping coverage, with
each cell representing a distinct geographic area. Cells can vary in size, depending on
factors such as population density and terrain. In urban areas, cells are typically
smaller to accommodate more users and reduce interference, while rural cells are
larger to cover wider areas.

Working of Cellular Networks

Cellular networks use radio frequencies to transmit and receive signals between
mobile devices and base stations. The network operates in the following manner:

1. Cell Division: The service area is divided into cells, each with its own base station.
Adjacent cells use different frequencies to avoid interference.

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2. Handoff Mechanism: When a user moves from one cell to another, the network
performs a "handoff" to transfer the connection to the new cell's base station,
ensuring seamless communication.

3. Frequency Reuse: To maximize spectrum efficiency, cellular networks reuse

frequencies in non-adjacent cells, increasing the number of users that can be
served.

Advantages of Cellular Networks

• Wide Coverage: Cellular networks provide extensive coverage, allowing
communication in urban and rural areas.

• Scalability: New cells can be added to expand coverage or improve network

capacity in densely populated areas.

• Mobility Support: Users can move across different locations while staying
connected.

• Efficient Spectrum Utilization: Frequency reuse and cell division enable more
efficient use of available spectrum.

Challenges of Cellular Networks

• Interference: Signal interference can occur between cells using similar frequencies,
affecting call quality.

• Capacity Limitations: High user density in specific areas can strain the network,
leading to dropped calls or reduced data speeds.

• Security Concerns: Cellular networks are vulnerable to eavesdropping, location

tracking, and other security threats.

Cellular Network Technologies

Several generations of cellular network technologies exist, evolving over time to meet
increasing demands for speed, reliability, and capacity:

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• 1G (First Generation): Analog-based technology primarily used for voice
communication.

• 2G (Second Generation): Digital technology offering enhanced voice quality and

basic data services (SMS).

• 3G (Third Generation): Introduced higher data speeds, enabling mobile internet

and multimedia applications.

• 4G (Fourth Generation): Offers high-speed mobile internet and supports advanced

services like HD streaming and online gaming.

• 5G (Fifth Generation): Delivers ultra-fast data rates, low latency, and support for
massive machine-to-machine communication, ideal for IoT applications and smart
cities.

Example of Cellular Network Usage

One of the most illustrative examples of cellular network usage is in the context of a
smart city equipped with 5G technology. In a smart city, various applications rely on
the ultra-fast connectivity provided by 5G networks:

• Autonomous Vehicles: These vehicles require constant communication with traffic

management systems and other connected vehicles to ensure safety and efficiency.
The low latency of 5G networks enables real-time decision-making.

• Smart Traffic Lights: Cellular networks allow traffic lights to communicate with
vehicles, adjusting signal timing based on real-time traffic conditions to minimize
congestion.

• Connected Devices: IoT sensors placed throughout the city collect data on
environmental conditions, energy usage, and public safety, transmitting it to control
centers via cellular networks.

• Mobile Communication: As people move through the city, their mobile phones
connect to different base stations to maintain communication.
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• Seamless Handoff: When a person travels from downtown to a residential area,
the cellular network transfers the connection from the downtown base station to the
residential area’s base station without any interruption.

• Network Coverage: Base stations are strategically placed to cover specific areas
such as downtown, residential neighborhoods, and shopping malls.

• Continuous Connectivity: The cellular network ensures that users can maintain
calls and data connections seamlessly as they move across different areas.

Conclusion
Cellular networks are a fundamental example of distributed network architecture,
providing the backbone for mobile communication worldwide. Their ability to efficiently
manage large numbers of users while supporting mobility and wide coverage has
made them indispensable for modern communication needs. Despite challenges such
as interference and capacity limitations, technological advancements continue to
enhance cellular networks, with 5G paving the way for future innovations like the
Internet of Things (IoT) and smart cities.

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References
1. Stallings, W. (2020). Wireless Communications & Networks (2nd ed.). Pearson.
2. Rappaport, T. S. (2013). Wireless Communications: Principles and Practice (2nd
ed.). Prentice Hall.
3. Goldsmith, A. (2005). Wireless Communications. Cambridge University Press.
4. Akyildiz, I. F., & Wang, X. (2005). A survey on wireless mesh networks. IEEE
Communications Magazine, 43(9), S23-S30.
5. Molisch, A. F. (2011). Wireless Communications (2nd ed.). Wiley.