# A Novel Collaborative Framework for Efficient Synchronization in Split Federated Learning over Wireless Networks

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2503.15559 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2503.15559/

## Key facts

- Cited by 1 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- Builds on 7 of its 22 references that are in the map.
- First posted on arXiv 18 Mar 2025.

## Builds on (most cited first, 7 of 7)

- [Client Selection for Federated Learning with Heterogeneous Resources in Mobile Edge](https://mlsanity.com/paper/1804.08333/) (2018)
- [SplitFed: When Federated Learning Meets Split Learning](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2004.12088/) (2020)
- [Split Learning over Wireless Networks: Parallel Design and Resource Management](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2204.08119/) (2022)
- [Incentive Mechanisms for Federated Learning: From Economic and Game Theoretic Perspective](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2111.11850/) (2021)
- [Evaluation and Optimization of Distributed Machine Learning Techniques for Internet of Things](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2103.02762/) (2021)
- [Combined Federated and Split Learning in Edge Computing for Ubiquitous Intelligence in Internet of Things: State of the Art and Future Directions](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2207.09611/) (2022)
- [Splitfed learning without client-side synchronization: Analyzing client-side split network portion size to overall performance](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2109.09246/) (2021)

## Built on by (most cited first, 1 of 1)

- [From State Synchronization to Cognitive Self-Evolution: An Operational Architecture for Cognitive Digital Twins](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2609.09625/) (2026)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Split Federated Learning (SFL) offers a promising approach for distributed model training in wireless networks, combining the layer-partitioning advantages of split learning with the federated aggregation that ensures global convergence. However, in heterogeneous wireless environments, disparities in device capabilities and channel conditions make strict round-based synchronization heavily straggler-dominated, thereby limiting both efficiency and scalability. To address this challenge, we propose a new framework, called Collaborative Split Federated Learning (CSFL), that redefines workload redistribution through device-to-device collaboration. Building on the flexibility of model partitioning, CSFL enables efficient devices, after completing their own forward propagation, to seamlessly take over the unfinished layers of bottleneck devices. This collaborative process, supported by D2D communications, allows bottleneck devices to offload computation earlier while maintaining synchronized progression across the network. Beyond the system design, we highlight key technical enablers such as privacy protection, multi-perspective matching, and incentive mechanisms, and discuss practical challenges including matching balance, privacy risks, and incentive sustainability. A case study demonstrates that CSFL significantly reduces training latency without compromising convergence speed or accuracy, underscoring collaboration as a key enabler for synchronization-efficient learning in next-generation wireless networks.