Fusion of Software Defined Networking, Edge Computing, and Blockchain Technology for Wireless Network Virtualization

Abstract

Wireless network virtualization is regarded as a technology to enable sharing of physical wireless infrastructure and RF slices for improving not only wireless network capacity and coverage but also wireless security. This article provides a perspective of fusion of three emerging technologies: SDN, EC, and blockchain technology for wireless network virtualization. SDN, with the help of controllers, allows dynamic configuration of network resources for their efficient management. EC not only helps to process user signals and queries at respective base stations with the shortest possible delay, but also helps to avoid the need of a high-speed backhaul link between a base station and centralized controllers. Blockchain technology protects owners of wireless infrastructures from a double spending attack that allocates the same wireless resource (RF slice) to multiple virtual wireless networks. The proposed approach aims to reduce business friction and increase the trust and transparency in the wireless networking industry.