 DPF. The data path function can be further classified based on its role in handover and initial entry procedures as follows: Anchor DPF is a DPF located at one end of the data path, which anchors the data path associated with the MS during handovers. This function forwards the received data packet to the serving DPF using either of the aforementioned types. This function buffers the data packets from the network and maintains some state information related to bearer for MS during handovers. Serving DPF is a DPF located at other end of a data path, which currently has association with the serving PHY/MAC functions and takes charge of transmission of all messages associated with the corresponding MS. This DP function, associated with a serving BS, communicates with the Anchor DP function through Type-1 or Type-2 data path, to forward/receive MS data packets. Target DPF is a DPF which has been selected as the target for the handover. This DPF, which is associated with a target BS, communicates with the anchor DPF to prepare a data path to replace the current data path following the completion of the handover. Upon successful completion of handover, it will assume the role of serving DPF. Relaying DPF is a DPF which helps transfer information between the serving, target, and anchor DPFs. The HandOver (HO) function makes the handover decisions and performs the signaling procedures related to handover. The handover function supports both mobile-initiated and network-initiated handover mechanisms. The handover function can be further classified by its role in handover oper- ation as follows: Serving HO Function which controls overall handover decision operation and signaling procedures related to handover. It signals the target handover function via zero or more relaying handover functions to prepare for handover, and sends the result to the MS. Relaying HO Function relays handover-related control messages between the serving and target handover functions. A relaying handover function may modify the content of handover