A reality check for content centric networking

TLDR

Content‑Centric Networking shifts focus from host‑to‑host to content distribution, offering reduced network load, lower latency, and energy savings, yet it remains uncertain whether current technology can support a full deployment. The study systematically evaluates whether existing router software and hardware can support CCN. The authors assess the readiness of current router components by testing their software and hardware capabilities for CCN support. They conclude that CCN can be deployed at CDN and ISP scale, but is not yet ready for Internet‑scale deployment.

Abstract

Content-Centric Networking (CCN) is a novel networking paradigm centered around content distribution rather than host-to-host connectivity. This change from host-centric to content-centric has several attractive advantages, such as network load reduction, low dissemination latency, and energy efficiency. However, it is unclear whether today's technology is ready for the CCN (r)evolution. The major contribution of this paper is a systematic evaluation of the suitability of existing software and hardware components in today's routers for the support of CCN. Our main conclusion is that a CCN deployment is feasible at a Content Distribution Network (CDN) and ISP scale, whereas today's technology is not yet ready to support an Internet scale deployment.