In-Network Query Processing

Synonyms

Tiny aggregation (TAG); TinyDB

Definition

In-Network query processing refers to the complete or partial evaluation of database queries at the edges of a network, rather than in a centralized database server. Though this phrase may also apply to the general process of distributed or parallel query evaluation, it is most commonly applied to environments like sensor networks, where the network edges consist of small, wireless devices with power and CPU constraints. Typically these devices produce the data to be processed via local sensors, so processing in the edges of the network can be beneficial because it can reduce bandwidth usage, which in turn can conserve energy.

Historical Background

Sensor networks are collections of small, inexpensive battery-powered, wirelessly networked devices equipped with sensors (microphones, temperature sensors, etc.) that offer the potential to monitor the world with unprecedented fidelity. To capture data from these networks, researchers have...