Understanding HTTP flow rates in cellular networks

Data traffic in cellular networks increased tremendously over the past few years and this growth is predicted to continue over the next few years. Due to differences in access technology and user behavior, the characteristics of cellular traffic can differ from existing results for wireline traffic. In this study we focus on understanding the flow rates and on the relationship between the rates and other flow properties by analyzing packet level traces collected in a large cellular network. To understand the limiting factors of the flow rates, we further analyze the underlying causes behind the observed rates, e.g., network congestion, access link or end host configuration. Our study extends other related work by conducting the analysis from a unique dimension, the comparison with traffic in wired networks, to reveal the unique properties of cellular traffic. We find that they differ in variability and in the dominant rate limiting factors.