RESTful information-centric networking: statement

Abstract

Web applications today utilize the Representation State Transfer (REST) architectural pattern, depending on HTTP, TLS, and either TCP or QUIC as the protocol substrate to build upon. Our vision is to achieve the key properties of REST using ICN protocols as an alternative. We argue that this is feasible given some of the recent advances in ICN protocol development and that the resulting suite is simpler and potentially having better performance and robustness properties. Our sketch of an ICN-based protocol framework addresses secure and efficient establishment and continuation of REST communication sessions, without giving up key ICN properties, such as consumer anonymity and flow balance.