Optimal Bandwidth Management and Capacity Provision in a Broadband Network Using Virtual Paths

Abstract This article describes a mathematical model for a broadband ISDN using virtual paths. It looks at performance measures relating to revenue and grade-of-service, and gives simple asymptotic formulae for evaluating the performance function, and its derivatives with respect to parameters that are controllable by network management. Exact and asymptotic results are compared. The problem of optimal capacity management is formulated and a solution is proposed. A formulation is also given for the problem of minimum cost capacity provision subject to performance and availability constraints; the solution of this problem is discussed.