A Simple Framework for Cross-Layer Network Enhancements in Linux
29 October 2016
The viability of cross-layer enhancements in computer networks has been discussed for many years. The case for cross-layer solutions usually lacks experimental validation in realistic deployments. Most researchers use simulation to validate their proposed solutions. We demonstrate a technique that we have been using to experiment with cross-layer solutions in real-life environments. Our framework is simple to understand and implement, and allows information to be shared between the application, transport, and link layers. It spans across the Linux user space, the Linux kernel space, and intermediate network devices. Both researchers and application developers can benefit from our framework.
