HTTP in the home: it is not just about PCs

HTTP (Hypertext Transport Protocol) was originally primarily used for human-initiated client-server communications launched from web browsers, traditional computers and laptops. However, today it has become the protocol of choice for a bewildering range of applications from a wide array of emerging devices like smart TVs and gaming consoles. This paper presents an initial study characterizing the non-traditional sources of HTTP traffic such as consumer devices and automated updates in the overall HTTP traffic for residential Internet users. Among our findings, 13% of all HTTP traffic in terms of bytes is due to nontraditional sources, with 5% being from consumer devices such as WiFi enabled smartphones and 8% generated from automated software updates and background processes. Our findings show that 11% of all HTTP requests are caused by communications with advertising servers from as many as 190 countries worldwide, suggesting the widespread prevalence of such activities. Overall, o...

• Type: Journal
• Year: 2011
• Where: CCR
• Authors: Jeffrey Erman, Alexandre Gerber, Subhabrata Sen
• Keywords: CCR 2011, Consumer Devices, HTTP Traffic, Overall Http Traffic, Software Engineering