QoS-aware net neutrality

Abstract

This paper proposes a compromise solution to the net neutrality problem, which is one of the key issues in the development process of new Internet applications and services. The solution is to use a QoS architecture, one that would provide service differentiation to support current and future demands, but one that would not require or even allow any user input. This way, ISPs (Internet Service Providers) will be refrained from introducing any explicit differentiation or prioritization, therefore, networks shall remain neutral while, still, providing necessary service differentiation. The FAN (Flow-Aware Networking) concept, presented in the paper, may be a good compromise to handle the net neutrality problem as it assures implicit service differentiation based solely on the traffic characteristics without any possibility of undesirable interference by ISPs or Internet users. © 2009 IEEE.