The IESG has approved TCP over Second (2.5G) and Third (3G) Generation
Wireless Networks' <draft-ietf-pilc-2.5g3g-12.txt> as a BCP. This
document is the product of the Performance Implications of Link
Characteristics Working Group. The IESG contact persons are A. Mankin
and Scott Bradner
Technical Summary
This document describes a profile for optimizing TCP to adapt so
that it handles paths that include segments that go over second
(2.5G) and third (3G) generation wireless networks. It describes
the relevant characteristics of 2.5G and 3G networks, and specific
features of example deployments of such networks. It then
recommends TCP algorithm choices for a device that is known to be
starting or ending on such a path (e.g. a GPRS phone) and it also
discusses open issues. The algorithsm recommended in this document
are commonly found in modern TCP stacks, and are widely available
standards-track mechanisms that the community considers safe for
use on the general Internet.
Working Group Summary
The working group achieved very high consensus on this document,
and brought strong background both the wireless impact on TCP
and TCP's general characteristics, and TCP itself to the document.
Protocol Quality
This document was reviewed for the IESG by Aaron Falk and Allison
Mankin. Although there are now many TCP stacks and data services
in 2.5G devices in operation, the TSV ADs believe that there would
be value in concerted implementation reporting to complement this
BCP's recommendations. It seems likely that the recommendations are
in need of more publicity, at least.
