# Blockchain-Enabled NextGen Service Architecture for Mobile Internet Offload
###### Abstract  
The amalgamation of heterogeneous generations of mobile cellular networks around the globe has resulted in diverse data speed experiences for end users. At present, there are no defined mechanisms in place for subscribers of a mobile network operator (MNO) to use the services of third-party WiFi providers. MNOs also have no standardized procedures to securely interact with each other, and allow their subscribers to use third-party services on a pay-as-you-go basis. This paper proposes a blockchain-enabled offloading framework that allows a subscriber of a mobile operator to temporarily use another MNO or WiFi provider's higher-speed network. A smart contract is employed to allow diverse entities, such as MNOs, brokers and WiFi providers, to automatically execute mutual agreements, to enable the utilization of third-party infrastructure in a secure and controlled manner. The proposed framework is tested using Ethereum's testnet on the Goerli network using Alchemy and Hardhat. The analysis of the results obtained shows that the proposed technique helps mobile operators to offer improved user experience in the form of average speed and latency. The experiments show that the average time taken to deliver a 500 MB file is reduced from 10.23 s to 0.91 s for the global average scenario, from 6.09 s to 0.50 s for 5G, from 13.50 s to 0.50 s for 4G-LTE, from 41.11 s to 0.49 s for 4G, and from 339.11 s to 0.49 s for the 3G scenario. The results also show that, with WiFi offloading, users from all cellular generations can enjoy a similar quality of services, because delivery time ranges from 0.49 s to 0.91 s for offloaded experiments whereas for the non-offloaded scenario it ranges from 6.09 s to 339.11 s.  
blockchain; 5G; WiFi; offload; smart contracts +
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a mobile network operator (MNO), then the traffic load on cellular networks could be reduced while simultaneously increasing the data speed offered to users. Our proposed framework allows independent private WiFi operators to be paid for their services by offloading users onto their networks, and this in turn means less capital expenditure investment by the MNOs in their own networks. A second reason for offloading is the guarantee of services to subscribers by an MNO in locations where they do not have a license to operate or have poor signal coverage issues. Subscribers can be offloaded to partner WiFi providers and will be able to enjoy enhanced data speeds. The third rationale for offloading is to ensure better service while roaming. For example, a subscriber who does not have roaming enabled on their device, but wishes to use the Internet for short periods, can be offloaded to one of these high-speed networks. The International Telecommunications Society (ITS) has also discussed the business model for public WiFi and its importance for generating revenue. They also emphasize the importance of mobile offloading, along with other aspects such as physical setting, network ownership, service provisioning, revenue model and offloading process management [2]. To allow for subscriber roaming between operators and the settlement of usage charges, MNOs at present have memoranda of understanding (MoUs) drawn up between them on a bilateral basis. However, MoUs are complex agreements which take time to negotiate, and therefore it would not be practical to negotiate MoUs with large numbers of small and medium-sized WiFi providers on a per-MNO basis. To enable our proposed offloading process, MNOs could register with a _broker_ who can collectively negotiate MoUs with many WiFi providers on their behalf. Additionally, blockchain technology can be used to allow participating entities to trust each other by executing smart contracts. The blockchain, along with an appropriate consensus mechanism, allows for the implementation of smart contracts in real terms, and also digitally facilitates, verifies and enforces the contract between two or more parties [3].