Analysis of Large-Scale Peer-to-Peer Network Topology

Modeling peer-to-peer (P2P) networks is a challenge for P2P researchers. It is the key to provide insight into the nature of the underlying system and building a successful model able to generate realistic topologies for simulation purpose. In this paper, we provide a detailed analysis of large-scale P2P network topology, using Gnutella as a case study. First, we re-examine the power-law distributions of the Gnutella network discovered by previous researchers. Our results show that the current Gnutella network deviates from the early power-laws, suggesting that the Gnutella network topology may have evolved a lot over time. Second, we identify important trends with regard to the evolution of the Gnutella network between September 2005 and February 2006. Third, we provide a novel two-layered approach to study the topology of the Gnutella network. Due to the limitations of the power-laws, we divide the Gnutella network into two layers, namely the mesh and the forest, to model the hybrid and highly dynamic architecture of the current Gnutella network. We give a detailed analysis of the topology of the mesh and present four power-laws concerning the mesh topology. Moreover, we examine the topology properties of the forest and provide one empirical law concerning the tree size. Using the two-layered approach and laws proposed, we can generate realistic topologies easily.