L4S, or Low Latency, Low Loss, Scalable Throughput, represents a new architecture poised to enhance our data traffic, providing accelerated internet performance without requiring any action on the user’s part. This architecture, introduced by Nokia Bell Labs, aims to tackle contemporary data transfer challenges.
Presently, data traverses the network as packets, forming a virtual queue that often results in sluggish data traffic. Nokia Bell Labs identifies three primary factors contributing to information packet delays: signal transmission speed limited by the speed of light, delays from interface failures due to equipment malfunctions, and queuing delays resulting from poor packet traffic. The latter, as highlighted by the researchers behind L4S, is deemed the most significant and, fortunately, the most manageable type of delay.
Queuing delays occur when packets linger at certain nodes (buffers) such as modems or routers, causing congestion and prolonged transit times. L4S addresses this issue through innovative traffic management algorithms designed to communicate with each other, marking delayed packets to improve overall traffic flow.
Operating at the IP layer, L4S utilizes Explicit Congestion Notification (ECN) to mark delayed packets. Unimpeded packets continue without marking, while those delayed for a predetermined period receive a mark. When these marked packets reach subsequent data transfer nodes, the system adjusts network traffic accordingly.
According to the developers, L4S can virtually eliminate information transfer delays (latency), making it particularly suitable for critical applications requiring real-time, smooth network traffic. Potential applications include remote operation of heavy engineering tools or mixed reality glasses that demand minimal on-device processing, contributing to size reduction.
L4S has garnered substantial support from notable entities. Apple, acknowledging the technology at its WWDC 2023 conference, incorporated L4S support into iOS 16 and macOS Ventura, expanding further in iOS 17 and macOS Sonoma. Comcast, a major U.S. telecommunications company, explores L4S implementation in collaboration with technology giants such as NVIDIA and Valve. Nvidia’s cloud game streaming service, GeForce Now, stands to benefit significantly from reduced latency, enhancing user experience. Other companies, including Google, Vodafone, and Nokia, are also evaluating the assimilation of L4S technology, recognizing its potential impact on infrastructure equipment.
