Evaluating the Impact of Packet Scheduling and Congestion Control Algorithms on MPTCP Performance over Heterogeneous Networks

TL;DR

This paper evaluates how different packet scheduling and congestion control algorithms affect MPTCP performance over heterogeneous networks through extensive experiments.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive analysis of MPTCP operation and assesses the impact of various algorithm combinations under diverse network heterogeneity conditions.

Findings

Algorithm choices significantly influence MPTCP performance.

Heterogeneity among network paths can reduce MPTCP efficiency.

Optimal algorithm combinations improve data throughput and stability.

Abstract

Modern mobile and stationary devices are equipped with multiple network interfaces aiming to provide wireless and wireline connectivity either in a local LAN or the Internet. Multipath TCP (MPTCP) protocol has been developed on top of legacy TCP to allow the simultaneous use of multiple network paths in the communication route between two end-systems. Although the combination of multiple paths is beneficial in case of links with similar network characteristics, MPTCP performance is challenged as heterogeneity among the used paths increases. This work provides an overview of the MPTCP protocol operation, analyzes the state-of-art packet scheduling and congestion control algorithms available in literature, and examines the impact of the various algorithm combinations on MPTCP performance, by conducting an extensive experimental evaluation under diverse path-heterogeneity conditions.