Exponential Backoff Algorithm

The exponential backoff algorithm is a collision resolution mechanism that uses multiplicative factors to vary the timing of repeated transmissions to avoid network collisions. Exponential backoff algorithms were initially proposed for computer networking where multiple computers share a single medium or channel. Both Ethernet and Wi-Fi networking standards incorporate exponential backoff algorithms. When multiple entities attempt to gain network access to a shared resource, only one of them can succeed at a time. Those who fail will wait and then retry. But if every entity retried simultaneously, they might all collide with no entity successfully connecting. Exponential backoff algorithms solve this network problem by dynamically varying the rate at which entity devices retry the network request.

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