This module enables the support for the Snoop protocol.
The main objective of this thesis is to address the challenges associated with wireless media and provide suitable solutions. These solutions include incorporating link-layer techniques as well as enhancements to TCP at the sender and receiver. In essence, the Snoop protocol is carefully designed to improve the performance of TCP over wired and single-hop wireless links.
This implementation is specifically developed for kernels of the 2.6.x series. It is designed to be used on routers that operate between big fat pipe (BFP) links and wireless links. The primary problem faced by users is that wireless links are inherently error-prone. BFP links, such as satellite links, have a very large round-trip time.
When errors occur on the wireless segment, it tends to cause speed reduction since the TCP protocol on the sending side treats this error as link congestion. Despite just being caused by a temporary link quality loss, the connection cannot recover its speed.
To fix this problem, the module will cache TCP segments that pass to the host on the wireless segment until the ACK (acknowledgment) is received or the timeout expires. In the case of timeouts, the segment will be retransmitted to prevent a reduction in speed. Additionally, the module will drop all duplicate ACK (acknowledgments) that result from packet loss on the wireless segment to prevent a reduction in the flow speed from the host beyond the satellite link.
It is important to note that the module works only with connections initiated from wireless hosts. Overall, the Berkley Snoop for Linux is an excellent module that enhances the performance of TCP over wireless media. Its valuable solutions to the challenges faced in wireless communications make it a must-have for users seeking better performance.
Version 0.3 RC7: N/A