With the fast development of wireless applications, the need for an optimized design of supporting networks steadily increases. One problem concerns efficient channel assignment, which is subject to collision and interference constraints. To propose a solution in the context of ad hoc wireless networks, the authors adapt a so-called cross-layer approach. Its core rests in the combination of traditionally separated connection-establishment steps, that is, channel assignment in the physical layer and routing. Additionally, a multichannel medium access protocol is proposed to support the contention and to resolve collisions in the channel assignment method presented. The authors base their approach on the rule that only active nodes are assigned channels on demand. Moreover, the routing protocol they use is a modification of one previously proposed by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF): optimized link state routing.

Except for providing details regarding the method, the authors present a quasi-formal proof: the solution is effective; the solution is an estimation of good algorithmic complexity features in comparison to the existing methods; and, similarly, there are interesting throughput and delay characteristics that differentiate the method from other solutions. In light of these results, future research that follows the path of this paper may prove fruitful.