Wireless FAQ  -> What is a handoff?

The term handoff typically refers to the process whereby the wireless subscriber's communication link is transferred from one base station to another base station. The type of handoff used depends on many factors. However, all handoff types employ the same concept in that the subscriber's communication link is transferred from one cell site to another without the communication link being permanently disrupted.

The decision process utilised for determining the type of handoff and the execution of the handoff proceed differently for each technology utilised.