On a novel methodology for estimating available bandwidth along network paths

Abstract

This paper presents a novel methodology, called COPP, to estimate available bandwidth over a given network path. We first present a rigorous definition of available bandwidth, from which the novel two-steps estimating methodology, e.g. partial and final step, can be derived. In partial step, COPP deploys a particular probe scheme, namely chirp of packet pairs, which is composed of several packet pairs with decremental inter-packet spacing. After each chirp is sent, a partial estimate can be obtained and equal to the weighted average of all turning bandwidth within the chirp. In the second step, the final estimate is the weighted amount of all partial results of all chirps in a measurement episode. Additionally, we develop a heuristic though efficient rule to determine whether a packet pair is turning point. Finally, the evaluation of COPP in various simulations shows that COPP can provide accurate results with relatively less overhead while adapt to network variations rapidly. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2005.