TCP Over Hybrid FSO/RF-based Satellite Networks in the Presence of Cloud Coverage

Abstract

Cloud coverage is one of the critical concerns for reliable hybrid free-space optic (FSO)/radio frequency (RF) based satellite communications. This adverse issue poses various challenges to the performance of the physical layer and different upper-layer protocols. This paper addresses the performance of transmission control protocol (TCP), which is one of the most essential transport protocols, over hybrid FSO/RF-based satellite networks in the presence of clouds. Specifically, the TCP throughput performance is analyzed under the impact of different cloud types. Also, different frequency bands of both FSO and RF used for satellite communications are investigated. The obtained results quantitatively demonstrate the severe impact of clouds on TCP performance over hybrid FSO/RF-based satellite networks.