Collaborative Service Provisioning at the Edge in 5G Wireless Networks

下一代移动网络5G有望为越来越多的移动用户提供超可靠的高速通信基础设施，包括与物联网（IoT）相关的连接设备、机器和车辆，以及要求极高的视频流量。5G网络中的服务将需要支持高移动性、高数据速率和低响应时间。此外，实时处理不断增加的数据量需要创新的解决方案，这些解决方案利用新的开发和网络基础设施，使数据处理尽可能接近源。这就是所谓的边缘计算。边缘计算已被证明对从回程链路/服务器卸载流量/计算以及提高用户的服务质量（QoS）具有重大影响。除了服务提供商的基础设施外，协作边缘计算服务还通过使用用户设备（例如智能手机）内的计算、存储和通信资源来提供。

5G, the next generation mobile network, promises to provide ultra-reliable high-speed communications infrastructure to the growing number of mobile users, including connected devices, machines and vehicles associated with the Internet of Things (IoT), as well as the highly demanding steaming video traffic. Services in 5G networks will require support for high mobility, high data rates and low response time. Furthermore, processing an ever-increasing volume of data in real time requires innovative solutions that leverage new developments and networking infrastructures that enable data processing as close to the source as possible. This is known as edge computing. Edge computing has been proven to have a significant impact on offloading traffic/computations from backhaul links/servers and improving users' Quality of Service (QoS). Collaborative edge computing services are provided through the use of the computing, storage and communication resources within user devices, e.g. smart phones, in addition to the infrastructure of the service provider. This proposed research will use edge resources to enhance the ability of 5G networks to meet users' demands and QoS requirements. The research uses novel predictive and collaborative techniques for service provisioning that adapt to changes in user mobility patterns and traffic demands. Machine learning techniques will be used to enhance predictions. The research will be instrumental in achieving ubiquitous wireless broadband access for Canadians and will enhance Canada's position in the telecommunications and mobile services sectors. Training of highly qualified personnel involved in this program will include experience in 5G network design, edge computing techniques and resource representation and management. I expect that five PhD, three Master's and four undergraduate students will receive training through this research program. There is a strong demand for these HQP in the information technology and telecommunications sectors and their future employment will accelerate disseminating next-generation communications technology to Canadian industry.