An integrated simple approach for the analysis of Internet backbone networks

Abstract

This paper presents an integrated and simple approach for the analysis of Internet backbone networks, emphasizing the need for a balance between the network resources utilization requirements of the Internet services providers (ISPs) and the services delay constraints of the Internet users (IUs). The integration of the approach is achieved by putting together the various issues associated with the target analysis, including network topology, capacity, traffic load, routing, traffic flow, and performance; and by considering the analysis both at the link level and at the path level. The simplicity of the approach is achieved by eliminating unnecessary details; and by allowing the approach to be applied in easy steps, using an open source, straightforward computer program. A typical example is used to illustrate the practical application of the approach. The work would be useful to the designers and administrators of ISP networks facing the continuous challenge of newer e-services and higher user traffic. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd