Vertical handoff decision (VHD) algorithms are essential components of the architecture of the forthcoming Fourth Generation (4G) heterogeneous wireless networks. These algorithms need to be designed to provide the required Quality of Service (QoS) to a wide range of applications while allowing seamless roaming among a multitude of access network technologies. This work mainly focuses on vertical handoff initiation and decision. The handoff initiation is critically important to keep the unnecessary handoffs and their failures at a low level. On the other hand, to maximize the end-user's satisfaction levels, the decision to select the best network among other available candidates also plays an important role. The proposed algorithm provides a complete framework to perform vertical handoffs in a heterogeneous wireless network. © 2013 Praise Worthy Prize S.r.l. - All rights reserved.