On the Validity of Fluid-dynamic Models for Data Networks

Abstract

Simulators have been acknowledged as one of the most flexible tool in studying and evaluating network performance. Variuous approaches have been followed in data networks modeling. The present paper explores the range of applicability of a fluid-dynamic model, proposed in [5], able to describe the load evolution of a data network. Looking at intermediate time scale, it is assumed that packets are conserved, and hence the packets density obey to a conservation law. The assumption underlying the model is the behaviour of the information loss probability from which the flux is derived. Here the validity of the above hypothesis and the rules introduced to solve dynamics at nodes are discussed. In particular packet loss estimations using queueing models have been compared with the assumed loss probability. Moreover a TCP throughput simulation is proposed to evaluate the feasibility of the &ldquo;tent&rdquo; flux. <br /

Simulation and Optimal Routing of Data Flows Using a Fluid Dynamic Approach

“…To achieve the goal of the validation of the model assumptions, the loss probability function has been compared with the behaviour of the packet loss derived from known models used in literature to infer network performance and the shape of the velocity and flux functions has been discussed. All the comparisons confirm the validity of the assumptions underlying the fluid-dynamic model (see D'Apice et al (2010)). …”

Flows of Substances in Networks and Network Channels: Selected Results and Applications

“…Another class of flows in networks that are modeled by differential equations are data flows in communication networks [ 100 , 248 , 249 , 250 , 251 ]. In this class of models, the nodes represent the servers and the edges represent the connections between the nodes.…”