Green Networking: Sustainable Approaches for Energy-Efficient Infrastructures

Abstract

Green networking focuses on designing, implementing, and operating networking infrastructures with minimal environmental impact by reducing energy consumption and enhancing resource efficiency. Key techniques include Adaptive Link Rate, Interface Proxying, Energy-Efficient Ethernet (EEE), Virtualization and SDNdriven traffic optimization, and energy harvesting in mobile networks. This paper surveys pre-2019 literature, categorizing green networking paradigms and methods across wired, data center, and mobile network domains. Methodology involves reviewing foundational taxonomies (e.g., four pillars by Bianzino et al.), evaluating advanced frameworks like GreenDCN for data centers and energy-sustainable paradigms in future mobile networks. Findings highlight significant potential: EEE can halve idle energy consumption; GreenDCN delivers up to 50% savings by minimizing active equipment; energy harvesting setups and SDN-based traffic engineering enhance sustainability in 5G contexts. Our proposed workflow integrates audit→baseline measurement→technology assessment (EEE, virtualization, SDN, harvesting)→deployment with monitoring and iterative optimization. Benefits include reduced operational costs, lower emissions, and extended hardware lifespan. Challenges involve upfront investments, compatibility with legacy systems, and complexity in heterogeneous environments. We conclude that green networking strategies are essential for modern sustainable infrastructure, but require balanced implementation with careful planning. Future research should enhance AI-driven energy-aware orchestration, lifecycle assessments, and renewable integration across heterogeneous networks.