Cache peering in multi-tenant 5G networks

TL;DR

This paper explores cache peering among co-located virtual network operators in 5G networks, leveraging NFV and SDN to reduce latency and traffic through autonomous cache sharing.

Contribution

It introduces a novel approach enabling VNOs to autonomously establish and manage cache peering links without infrastructure operator intervention.

Findings

Cache peering reduces latency for VNOs.

Autonomous management of peering links is feasible.

Shared caches improve content delivery efficiency.

Abstract

Building on the adoption of the Network Functions Virtualization (NFV) and Software Defined Networking (SDN) paradigms, 5G networks promise distinctive features includ- ing the capability to support multi-tenancy. Virtual network operators (VNOs) are expected to co-exist over the shared infrastructure, realizing their network functionality on top of virtualized resources. In this context, we observe the emerging opportunity for establishing synergies between co-located tenants of the infrastructure, in the form of cache peering relationships between co-located VNOs. Upon a cache miss, co-located caches benefit from content cached at their peers, taking advantage of the shared nature of the infrastructure in reducing latencies and traffic overheads. Our approach allows VNOs to autonomously manage their peering links without the involvement of the infrastructure operator.