Performance Evaluation of Link Adaptation Algorithms in 5G NR

Fifth-generation New-Radio (5G NR) networks have revolutionized how humanity interacts with technology, promising faster, more reliable, and more efficient connectivity. In this regard, simulation tools were born from the necessity of developers and researchers to have robust, versatile, and realistically yielding software to evaluate new developments in these networks before real-world implementations. This paper evaluates the performance of link adaptation algorithms using the discrete-event network simulator ns-3 and the 5G-LENA module, which implements the 3GPP standards. Some near real-life scenarios were defined for testing these algorithms and checking how they affect the performance of the link. Furthermore, a new algorithm was proposed based on existing ones. The results showed that none of the evaluated algorithms outperformed the rest, considering the assessed metrics and simulated scenarios, but the proposed algorithm had a better performance in packet delay than the standard while still having opportunities for enhancements.