A Q-Learning-Based Load Balancing Method for Real-Time Task Processing in Edge-Cloud Networks

Abstract

Edge computing has emerged as a promising solution to reduce communication delays and enhance the performance of real-time applications. However, due to the limited processing power of edge servers, it is challenging to achieve efficient task processing. In this paper, we propose a Q-learning-based load-balancing method that optimizes the distribution of real-time tasks between edge servers and cloud servers to reduce processing time. The proposed method is dynamic and adaptive, taking into account the constantly changing network status and server usage. To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed load-balancing method, extensive simulations are conducted in an Edge-Cloud network environment. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method significantly reduces processing time compared to traditional static load-balancing methods. The Q-learning algorithm enables the load-balancing system to dynamically learn the optimal decision-making strategy to allocate tasks to the most appropriate server. Overall, the proposed Q-learning-based load-balancing method provides a dynamic and efficient solution to balance the workload between edge servers and cloud servers. The proposed method effectively achieves real-time task processing in edge computing environments and can contribute to the development of high-performance edge computing systems.