RITE · Reducing Internet Transport Latency

The present Internet limits the performance of applications that need real-time interaction. In part this is because the design of the network has been optimised to boost throughput, maximising efficiency for bulk applications. There is evidence that large buffers throughout the network have added to the end-to-end latency, with excessive delays severely impacting the quality experienced by users. However, changes in use have resulted in an important class of applications that now depends on timely delivery. Applications that need low latency currently require a dedicated network and/or operator traffic engineering. In response to this, RITE brings together a consortium with the research and industrial experience required to locate and explore the root causes of Internet latency. Research will specify and implement new methods to significantly reduce - or even eliminate - the effects of latency when coupled with small, but significant, changes in end-system behaviour. The benefits are expected to have no, or limited, impact on the throughput. The methods will be assessed using applications with four different use cases: one commercial financial application, one coordinated with the roll-out of a new multiplayer online game, one supporting interactive video in an access network and one evaluating web traffic over a broadband access network. Benefits are also expected for a range of current applications, including web-based collaborative tools and interactive remote control and to pave the way for a large amount of future applications. By taking the new methods to standardisation bodies, e.g. the IETF, and by implementing end-system solutions in open-source operating systems, RITE will ensure availability of the results and encourage deployment in the future Internet. RITE will therefore contribute to the evolution of the Internet and offer European businesses a competitive edge in developing and supporting next generation applications that benefit from high interactivity.