TinyTorrents - Integrating Peer-to-Peer and Wireless Sensor Networks

Abstract

TinyTorrents integrates Wireless Sensor Networks with the BitTorrent Peer-to-Peer protocol and is designed to respect the resource constrained environment which characterises many WSN's. This paper describes the architecture and design which underpins the TinyTorrents system and explores many of the technical challenges that arise in the fusion of such distinct data dissemination networks. The key behaviours and features of both Peer-to-Peer and Wireless Sensor Networks are first explored and evaluated. TinyHop, the protocol used for inter-node routing within the WSN, is presented. Experimental resource optimization and system analysis is performed for message overhead, resource coordination, peer selection and tracker functionality. The system advertises available node and network data via both Web 2.0 service interfaces and through BitTorrent tracker networks. The system has been validated and demonstrated using multiple networks and multiple clients accessing data on a global scale.