Mechanism

The BDN achieves performance gains through a combination of protocol-level optimizations and network-level design choices. Here’s how it works:

Compressed Blocks

Rather than forwarding full blocks, the BDN sends a compressed version by referencing transactions using short IDs (SIDs).

• Transactions are indexed and cached across the network.

• Gateways replace full transaction data with 4-byte SIDs when sending blocks.

• Receiving Gateways reconstruct the original block from cached data.

Cut-Through Routing

The BDN reduces propagation delay by forwarding block data as it arrives, rather than waiting for the full block to be received and validated.

• Enables real-time streaming of blocks between Relays and Gateways.

• Reduces per-hop delay compared to traditional peer-to-peer networks.

Optimized Topology

The BDN avoids the inefficiencies of random p2p connections by using a smart, latency-aware topology.

• Relays are strategically deployed in key regions.

• Gateways connect to Relays based on ping latency and server load.

• Redundant links ensure failover paths in case of disconnection or degradation.

Relay Selection Process

When a Gateway starts, it follows a discovery and selection process to optimize its Relay connections.

• Detects its public IP address (auto or user-defined).

• Contacts the Control Plane for a list of suggested Relays.

• Measures latency and selects the lowest-latency Transaction and Block Relay.

• Stores a backup Relay pair for redundancy.