International Research Journal of Education and Technology

This research presents novel methods for dynamically optimizing the Media Access Control (MAC) performance of IEEE 802.11 Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs). By addressing established limitations within the Distributed Coordination Function (DCF) and Point Coordination Function (PCF) modes, the study proposes learning-based protocols for (1) reducing polling overhead through Priority Round Robin Scheduling (PRRS) and (2) dynamically switching between DCF and PCF via the Dynamic Switching Protocol (DSP). Simulations demonstrate notable improvements in network throughput and latency, particularly under variable load conditions, supporting the value and applicability of dynamic MAC adaptation for future WLANs.