Packet-Pair Dispersion Signatures in Multihop Networks

摘要

Packet-pair technique is a widely used method for characterizing end-to-end network paths. A new analytical model is presented for the packet-pair based signature that accurately describes the behavior of packet-pairs in multihop network paths with multiple tight links. The relationship between the input and output gaps of packet-pairs and the corresponding distribution of end-to-end packet-pair dispersions are derived. This relationship is then used to derive the signature characterizing the path. The model is verified via OPNET® based simulations. We explore how the signature is shaped by factors such as the number of hubs, initial dispersion, and cross traffic. Path signature is an essential tool for applications that need to distinguish between different network paths. The analytical model provides deeper insights to path signatures in the presence of multiple tight links, thus enabling accurate network monitoring, problem diagnosis, and estimation of link and path parameters such as network bandwidths and link capacities.