Adaptive file distribution in P2P network using ant colony optimization for smart home environment

In this paper, we consider the file distribution problem in peer-to-peer networks. We propose a novel algorithm, called AntReplica, for an efficient and adaptive replication of large files in the Internet environment. AntReplica is inspired by the stigmergy model of communication observed in ant colonies, and allows for peers to experience the short distribution delay. In order to replicate an original file among group member nodes, the file is partitioned into small chips of equal size, and each chip is transferred to a member node in proportion to the probability of selecting a link. Then, each node propagates it to the remaining nodes in the group. Proposed method achieves significantly reduced file replication time as we demonstrate through experiment with an event-driven simulator.