Edge Content Caching via Secure QUIC Tunnels in Wireless Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Video-on-demand systems face challenges with heavy resource allocation due to large content storage requirements and bandwidth consumption when multiple user equipments (UEs) request the same content, leading to inefficient use of network resources.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a network function that establishes secure tunnel connections with a content delivery server and UEs, utilizing QUIC-based tunneling to facilitate content delivery through a proxy service node, reducing the load on the content server and optimizing delivery through network functions located closer to UEs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If content is cached at the network edge closer to end users, then service latency is reduced and user experience is improved, but network infrastructure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The network edge is segmented into multiple distributed cache servers deployed across different locations closer to end users. Each cache server independently caches and delivers content, dividing the caching function across multiple nodes rather than using a single centralized system, thereby reducing latency while managing complexity through modular deployment
Solution Approach 2:
A centralized controller acts as an intermediary between the content delivery network and distributed cache servers. The controller dynamically manages cache content, assigns caching responsibilities, and coordinates delivery, simplifying the overall system management while enabling intelligent edge caching to reduce latency
2Productivity
If cache servers are deployed dynamically based on user demand, then network resource utilization is optimized, but system complexity and deployment difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
Cache servers are deployed dynamically rather than statically. The system continuously monitors user demand patterns and automatically provisions or deprovisions cache servers based on real-time traffic conditions, optimizing resource utilization while adapting to changing network conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where cache server performance and user demand data are continuously collected and analyzed. This feedback drives automated decisions about cache server deployment, content assignment, and resource allocation, enabling optimization without manual intervention
3Adaptability or versatility
If diverse content types are cached at the edge, then content delivery flexibility is improved, but cache management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cache server system is designed with universal capabilities to handle multiple content types including video, audio, images, and web pages through a unified caching and delivery mechanism. The system adapts its caching strategies based on content characteristics without requiring separate specialized systems for each content type
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts caching parameters such as cache duration, priority, and allocation based on content type, user preferences, and network conditions. Different content types receive different caching treatments automatically, providing flexible content delivery while the system manages the complexity through automated parameter adjustment
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method (500), network function (104), a content delivery server (106), and a computer program product for handling delivery of content associated with a network-delivered service to user equipments, UEs (102a-102n), in a wireless communication network (100). The method (500) is performed by a network function (104) of the wireless communication network. The method (500) comprises transmitting (204, 304, 504) a connection request message to a content delivery server (106) for establishing a secure tunnel connection between the network function (104) and the content delivery server (106). The connection request message comprising an identifier, ID, of the network function (104), intended to the content delivery server (106). The method (500) comprises transmitting (208, 308, 506) a content request message from a first UE (102a – 102n) to the content delivery server (106) requesting content associated with the network-delivered service. The method (500) comprises receiving (312, 508) a delivery request from the content delivery server (106), said delivery request requesting the network function (104) to store and deliver the content from the network function (104). The method (500) further comprises forwarding (316, 510) the content to the first UE through a secure tunnel connection between the network function (104) and the first UE (102a – 102n). Corresponding network function (104), content delivery server (106) and computer program products are also disclosed.