Caching resource management of mobile edge network based on Stackelberg game

Abstract Mobile edge caching technology is gaining more and more attention because it can effectively improve the Quality of Experience (QoE) of users and reduce backhaul burden. This paper aims to improve the utility of mobile edge caching technology from the perspectie of caching resource management by examining a network composed of one operator, multiple users and Content Providers (CPs). The caching resource management model is constructed on the premise of fully considering the QoE of users and the servicing capability of the Base Station (BS). In order to create the best caching resource allocation scheme, the original problem is transformed into a multi-leader multi-follower Stackelberg game model through the analysis of the system model. The strategy combinations and the utility functions of players are analyzed. The existence and uniqueness of the Nash Equilibrium (NE) solution are also analyzed and proved. The optimal strategy combinations and the best responses are deduced in detail. Simulation results and analysis show that the proposed model and algorithm can achieve the optimal allocation of caching resource and improve the QoE of users.