Monitoring quality of service on broadband networks

• Main Author: Mouharam, Aimen Abdul Karim
• Published: Kingston University 2002
• Subjects: 384; Computer science and informatics
• Online Access: https://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.275112

Recent years have brought great change in the telecommunication environment: Separate voice, video and data networks are being replaced by "broadband integrated service digital network" (B-ISDN) networks capable of supporting heterogeneous traffic. One possible protocol for implementation of B-ISDN is the Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM). Quality of Service (QoS) has become an important factor in the deployment of this next-generation of data networks. The continuing increase in the volume of data to be carried has boosted the need for efficient QoS administration. Although the Connection Admission Control (CAC) algorithm is not specified by the International Telecommunications Union Telecommunications (ITU-T), it is still widely used to moderate bandwidth allocation, and User Parameter Control (UPC) algorithms can ensure that contractual stipulations are met. However, if an accurate QoS monitoring technique is implemented, both the CAC and UPC mechanisms will have a firmer foundation upon which to base their decisions. QoS monitoring will allow a network operator to take an action if deterioration in the network is detected. This research focuses on the use of data interpretation to monitor the QoS of source bursty traffic based upon delay. The author has studied the monitoring process in a simulated environment of sufficient detail to produce statistically significant results. This research employs the implementation of a purpose-built simulation of an ATM network, in which the QoS experienced by different monitored sources is monitored in the presence of heterogeneous cross-traffic. The results from this simulation provide a deeper understanding of traffic interaction in broadband networks. Techniques have been deivised, tested and validated for the monitoring of both Constant Bit rate (CBR) and Variable Bit rate (VBR) traffic. The results will ultimately assist in the design of new network management strategies for ATM. Other network protocols or testing equipment will benefit from the findings of the research.