A theory of networking and its contributions to software engineering

Abstract

This chapter presents a compositional theory of networking as an example of a useful and realistic domain theory. First, it uses networking to illustrate all the parts of a domain theory, including a reusable domain description with intrinsic state and behavior, software interfaces and specifications, requirements, proof obligations, and theorems. Next, the theory is extended with composition of network domains, which is directly relevant to solving today's most critical networking problems. Finally, the chapter proposes ways in which the theory can contribute directly to the design and development of network software.