Efficient and flexible inter-overlay scheduling of media streams for multi-channel P2P streaming

Existing studies on channel bandwidth imbalance in P2P multi-channel streaming systems have been exclusively focused on inter-overlay bandwidth allocation. However, an efficient inter-overlay scheduling algorithm is still in lack for benefactors. To this end, this paper presents an inter-overlay substream scheduling algorithm compatible with various overlay meshes for active inter-overlay cooperation, through which the outbound bandwidth of benefactors can be efficiently utilized and bandwidth-deprived channels receiving benefactions can attain a better streaming quality.