IEEE 802.11 Networks: MAC Protocols for Heterogeneous Multi-Antenna Scenarios and Software-Defined Radio PHY Layer Implementation

The objective of this thesis is to discuss the performance achieved by IEEE 802.11 networks, considering in detail their simulation and experimental analysis, as well as the implementation aspects. The original contribution of this dissertation involves three main research fields within the context of distributed wireless networks: the experimental and theoretical analysis of IEEE 802.11e networks in presence of quality of service mechanisms, the development and the simulation of backward compatible medium access control protocols in presence of smart antenna systems, and, finally, the implementation of the IEEE 802.11ag physical layer on software-defined radio platforms.