Rethinking Reliability Using Network Coding: a Practical 5G Evaluation

2025-08-13

AI Summary

To address the inefficiency and throughput limitations of ARQ/HARQ retransmission mechanisms under high packet-loss conditions in 5G networks, this paper proposes and implements a forward erasure coding scheme based on Random Linear Network Coding (RLNC) at the IP layer. Leveraging the netfilter framework, the scheme intercepts and encodes packets in real time over the gNB–UE wireless link. Crucially, it replaces conventional retransmissions with RLNC-based encoding at the block level, thereby eliminating dependency on feedback channels. Experimental results demonstrate that, under moderate code rates, the scheme significantly reduces retransmission counts and associated resource overhead. Throughput improvements reach 30%–60% across medium-to-high packet-loss regimes, while jitter remains within acceptable bounds. These findings validate RLNC as a feasible and practical paradigm for achieving efficient and reliable data transmission in 5G systems.

Technology Category

• Cognitive Modeling & Cognitive Systems: Neural Spike Coding
• Machine Learning: Learning on the Edge & Model Compression
• Multiagent Systems: Agent Communication

Application Category

• Search and Retrieval-Augmented AI: Efficiency and scalability of Web search engines
• Responsible Web: Measurement, analysis, and circumvention of Web censorship
• Systems and Infrastructure for Web, Mobile and WoT: Web performance, measurement, and characterization

Abstract

This work presents the design and implementation of a real-time network coding system integrated into the IP layer of a 5G testbed, offering an alternative to conventional retransmission-based reliability mechanisms such as ARQ and HARQ. Using a netfilter-based packet interception framework, we inject forward erasure correction using Random Linear Network Coding (RLNC) into live traffic between a gNB and UE over a 3GPP RF link. We evaluate a block coding scheme, analyzing its impact on throughput, jitter, and resource usage. Results show that with appropriate code rate selection, RLNC can fully recover from packet losses using fewer transmissions than ARQ/HARQ and maintain a high throughput, particularly under moderate-to-high packet loss rates. These findings demonstrate that network coding can effectively replace retransmission-based reliability in future wireless systems, with the potential for more efficient resource utilization.

Problem

• Designing real-time network coding for 5G reliability
• Comparing RLNC with ARQ/HARQ for packet loss recovery
• Evaluating RLNC impact on throughput and resource usage

Innovation

• Real-time network coding in 5G IP layer
• Netfilter-based RLNC for forward erasure correction
• Block coding optimizes throughput and resource usage