Streaming Scalable Video Sequences with Media-Aware Network Elements Implemented in P4 Programming Language

Abstract

We present the first Media-Aware Network Element (MANE) for intelligently streaming scalable video sequences in P4 programming language. Our MANE selectively drops queued scalable video packets when the queue occupancy exceeds a threshold. Three packet discarding logics are implemented: (i) tail, (ii) enhancement-layer, and (iii) rate-distortion optimized. Our P4-based MANE implementation is demonstrated in: (i) larger emulated networks in mininet with P4 software switches and (ii) a small real network with a physical P4 switch and multiple Raspberry Pis running P4 software switches.