Integration of ICN and MEC in 5G and Beyond Networks: Mutual Benefits, Use Cases, Challenges, Standardization, and Future Research

Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC) is a novel edge computing paradigm that moves cloud-based processing and storage capabilities closer to the mobile users by implementing server resources in access nodes. MEC helps fulfill stringent requirements of 5G beyond networks offer anytime-anywhere connectivity for many devices with ultra-low delay huge bandwidths. Information-Centric Networking (ICN) another prominent network technology builds on content-centric architecture overcome host-centric routing/operation shortcomings realize efficient pervasive ubiquitous networking. It envisaged be employed Future Internet including Beyond (B5G) networks. The consolidation ICN offers new opportunities vision serve advanced use cases. However, various integration challenges are yet addressed enable wide-scale co-deployment future In this paper, we discuss elaborate provide comprehensive survey forward-looking perspective regard, deduce lessons learned from related works (for both networks). We present ongoing standardization activities highlight practical implications such efforts. Moreover, render key B5G cases role addressing their requirements. Finally, layout research identify potential directions. For last contribution, also mapping latter