Simulation of distributed computer networks

This is a study of the simulated performance of two local area networks, Ethernet and the MAP network, respectively based on the IEEE standards 802.3 and 802.4. The simulation language chosen is of the discrete event type rather than the more usual analytical model. This is done in order to observe the interaction between the various entities of a network in order to gain a better understanding of the method of operation of such a system. The performance demanded of a node entity by the networks is determined. The performance of some commercially available hardware is derived from manufacturer's specifications and compared with that required by the network. It is found that there is a significant disparity, with the network requirements far exceeding that of the hardware capabilities. The simulation models developed are used to determine the performance of the networks both with and without the limitations imposed by currently available hardware. While the inclusion of the hardware performance causes little ·loss in performance for the Ethernet network, it has a highly detrimental effect on that of the MAP network. A possible solution is found to this limitation which requires minimal change to the existing protocol. The conclusions reached are that with currently available hardware a group of nodes are able to fully utilise the performance of the Ethernet LAN although a single pair of nodes is unable to do so. With regard to the MAP network, the network performance is limited by that of the node performance although this can be offset to a certain extent by careful choice of one of the protocol parameters, or modification of the hardware design.

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

Department of Electrical Engineering

Year dc:date.issued

1987

Author dc:creator

• Weehuizen, Hermanis Frans

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• McLaren, S G

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/11427/21869

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:open.uct.ac.za:11427/21869