P4LoWPAN: Transforming IoT Networks with a Programmable Data plane and In-band Telemetry

The Internet of Things (IoT) has transformed modern networks by interconnecting diverse devices across smart homes, industrial automation, and environmental monitoring. However, IoT networks face challenges due to constrained devices and unreliable communication links, requiring efficient routing protocols and adaptive architectures. The Routing Protocol for Low-Power and Lossy Networks (RPL), while the standard for IoT, struggles with real-time monitoring and dynamic topologies. Evaluating RPL proposals in realistic environments is essential, and network emulation offers a practical middle ground between full-scale deployment and simulations. To address these challenges, this paper introduces P4LoWPAN, an innovative IoT network emulation platform that integrates P4 with RPL, leveraging In-band Network Telemetry (INT) for real-time monitoring and a programmable data plane. Built on Mininet-WPAN and powered by Docker-based sensor nodes, P4LoWPAN provides a scalable and flexible environment for IoT network emulation. It enables dynamic routing, topology visualization, and detailed telemetry, making it a valuable tool for researchers optimizing IoT networks. Case studies demonstrate P4LoWPAN’s capabilities, showcasing its potential to support more efficient, adaptive, and programmable IoT data planes.