3C Resource Allocation for Next-Generation Applications in an In-Network Computing-Enabled Edge-Cloud Continuum
Manel Gherari, Mouhamad Dieye, Halima Elbiaze, Yacine M. Ghamri-Doudane, Roch Glitho · 2024
Amidst the emergence of immersive applications, such as, the metaverse, Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Holography, it is clear that substantial enhancements to our existing internet infrastructure are imperative. Fulfilling the stringent Quality of Service (QoS) requirements—which include ultra-low latency, high bandwidth, and optimal frame refresh rates—hinges on the seamless integration of Communication, Caching, and Computing, collectively referred to as the "3C". These elements must be interwoven within the network fabric. Our study presents a novel approach to optimize these 3C resources within a network framework that incorporates Edge and Cloud computing, and In-Network Computing (INC). We propose a resource allocation solution tailored to networks enabled by INC. We aim to efficiently manage the distribution of Service Function Chains and the storage of relevant data for immersive applications. Given the inherent complexity of the tackled problem, we propose two solutions: a Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO)-based meta-heuristic and a simpler, yet effective, greedy heuristic. Our comprehensive simulations, grounded in realistic VR scenarios, validate the effectiveness of the proposed solution, which not only enhances resource efficiency and reduces operational costs but also guarantees high refresh rates and maintains a Motion-To-Photon latency under 22 ms.