A resource allocation framework in b-isdn

With the introduction of a B-ISDN based on the Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM), network designers face a variety of new problems. Undoubtedly, ATM offers a large potential of flexibility. As an information transfer mode, it will most certainly fulfil the requirements within various application areas. The principles for resource allocation in an ATM network, however, have to be designed with great care in order to enable the ATM network to meet the most stringent requirements and to show an acceptable level of robustness. The resource allocation functions may be classified into three categories; one including functions to control the load in the network by managing the flows of ATM cells, a second including functions performed during connection set-up phase and a third including functions performed to manage network resources on a long-term basis. It is the objectives of the paper to discuss the requirements associated with resource allocation, to outline a possible framework and to elaborate some identified key issues in more detail.