Congestion control for differentiated-services using non-linear control theory

Abstract

The growing demand of computer usage requires efficient ways of managing network traffic in order to avoid or at least limit the level of congestion in cases where increases in bandwidth are not desirable or possible. Using non-linear control theory we developed and analysed a generic Integrated Dynamic Congestion Control (IDCC) scheme for controlling traffic using information on the status of each queue in the network. The IDCC scheme is based on a nonlinear model of the network that is generated using fluid flow considerations. The methodology used is general and independent of technology, as for example TCP/IP or ATM. We assume a differentiated-services network framework and formulate our control strategy in the same spirit as IP Diff-Serv for three types of services: Premium Service, Ordinary Service, and Best Effort Service. The three differentiated classes of traffic operate at each output port of a router/switch. An IDCC scheme is designed for each output port, and a powerful, simple to implement controller is designed and analysed. The IDCC methodology has been applied to an ATM network. We use OPNET simulations to demonstrate that the proposed control methodology achieves the desired behaviour of the network, and possesses important attributes, such as: stable and robust behaviour, high utilisation with bounded delay and loss performance, and good steady state and transient behaviour.