Sendingu

Sendingu is a protocol suite and conceptual framework for resilient, asynchronous data exchange across diverse networks. It emphasizes reliable delivery in environments with intermittent connectivity, limited bandwidth, or energy constraints. The term is used in some research circles to describe a holistic approach that combines store-and-forward routing, content-addressable storage, and end-to-end security.

History and scope: The idea emerged from academic work in the early 2010s, with experimental pilots in heterogeneous networks. Real-world deployments remain specialized, focusing on scenarios such as remote sensing, field operations, and disaster response where continuous connectivity cannot be guaranteed.

Mechanism: Data is partitioned into units called sends, each carrying metadata, a payload, and a cryptographic signature. Messages are routed opportunistically through a mesh of nodes using store-and-forward principles, prioritizing energy efficiency and tolerance to delays. A content-addressable store enhances data integrity, while delivery is confirmed through time-stamped receipts. Security features typically include end-to-end encryption and configurable key exchange mechanisms, with options for post-quantum readiness.

Architecture and implementation: The protocol stack commonly features layers corresponding to physical/link, a sendingu transport layer, session management, and application interfaces. Interoperability with existing cryptographic primitives is emphasized, enabling integration with standard security libraries and compatible network technologies where feasible.

Applications and limitations: Potential use cases include remote Internet of Things deployments, humanitarian communications, field reporting in disaster zones, and censorship-resistant messaging. Advantages include resilience to network partitioning, reduced energy consumption, and adaptability to varying topologies. Limitations involve higher latency in some scenarios, overhead for small messages, and challenges around broad interoperability and standardization.

See also: Delay-tolerant networking, peer-to-peer networks, content-addressable storage, cryptography.