Modeling the network layer and routing protocols

Abstract

The network layer is in charge of ensuring end-to-end connectivity among the nodes of a network. This goal comprises the subtasks of providing a way of addressing all participating nodes, setting up a forwarding mechanism for packets on the nodes, and establishing paths along which packets are to be routed. The major challenge in achieving this goal is the scalability of the routing algorithms with regard to data structures and signaling overhead, especially in the light of a changing network topology. © 2010 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.