Named Data Networking (NDN) for Performance Enhancement in Secured Satellite Communication Systems

In this proposal, Intelligent Fusion Technology proposes to investigate the use of Named Data Networking (NDN) in SATCOM network and Delay (Disruption) Tolerant Networking (DTN) scenarios. NDN is a new networking architecture. Unlike conventional TCP/IP based networking that is connection centric, NDN is data centeric and focuses on distribution of data content. The same named data packet cached in the network can be shared by many users, which greatly reduces network traffic loads. NDN also facilitates the use of opportuninistic network connections. Named data packets can be cached in communciation networks and be forwarded when network connection becomes available. It also has built-in security to each named data packet that ensures the data content is from an authentic source and can be accessed only by authorized users. These features make NDN suit the very well secured communciation needs in SATCOM networks where connection delay is relatively large and connections may be interrupted. In this project, a network environment emulation testbed will be developed for realistic emulation of various SATCOM network environments. The use of NDN in several SATCOM networking scenarios of interest will be investigated, which involves the optimization and customization of NDN according to network environments and application needs.