Efficient content distribution in social-aware hybrid networks

Internet usage is increasing in two dimensions: the time users spend online and the amount of data they send and receive. The result is an increasing stress for the Internet infrastructure. Current developments like the trend towards video on demand and IPTV introduce even more bandwidth intensive services, which amplifies the demand for an efficient content delivery model. This article presents such a model which incorporates social awareness and is based on the combination of complementary networks, referred to as a hybrid network. Its applicability is further investigated and discussed by means of a YouTube video request analysis.

► Hybrid network model combining unicast and broadcast networks. ► Analysis of YouTube video request frequencies and bursts. ► Content distribution in hybrid networks which leads to reduced web traffic. ► Introducing social awareness for content distribution in hybrid networks. ► Future television model.