Mathematical modelling of the Internet
Modern communication networks are able to respond to randomly
fluctuating demands and failures by allowing buffers to fill, by rerouting
traffic and by reallocating resources. They are able to do this so well
that,
in many respects, large-scale networks appear as coherent, almost
intelligent, organisms. The design and control of such networks present
challenges of a mathematical, engineering and economic nature.
This talk will describe how mathematical models are
being used to address current issues concerning the stability and
fairness of rate control algorithms for the Internet and
for developing broadband networks.
References:
Ramesh Johari's article Mathematical
modeling and control of Internet congestion
SIAM News, volume 33, March 2000.