A novel approach for real time flows scheduling

Abstract

A plethora of packet-scheduling algorithms have been proposed in the literature in order to meet the stringent time constraints of real time flows at an IP router level. In this regard, the so-called EDF algorithm attracted special attention since it is prominent for optimally managing flows with strict time constraints. However, EDF is complex and expensive as far as implementation is concerned, especially when compared with the standard FIFO algorithm. As a main contribution in this paper, we therefore propose a novel hybrid scheduling approach, which combines the optimality of EDF and the simplicity of FIFO. This approach allows reducing EDF's implementation complexity while making efficient use of its optimal flow management. Our simulation results underline the benefits behind such a proposal.