Desempenho e Dimensionamento de Redes e Sistemas

Objectives

To address the problem of resource management in computer networks and systems, introduce the main techniques of performance analysis and dimensioning (stochastic modelling, discrete event simulation and optimization) and their use in the context of networks and systems. Students must acquire the following skills: (i) be able to evaluate the performance of networks and services; (ii) be able to efficiently dimension networks and services using optimization techniques; (iii) understand the performance/cost tradeoff in the resource management of networks and services; (iv) be able to apply queuing theory in network performance analysis and understand its limitations; (v) be able to properly handle network and service simulators. The course aims at training performance and planning engineers.

Syllabus

1 - Stochastic modelling and queuing systems: discrete and continuous-time Markov chains, renewal and Poisson processes, Little's law, PASTA property, Markovian queues, M/G/1 queue, traffic models. 2 - Simulation of discrete events: programming techniques, generation of distributions and stochastic processes, statistical analysis of simulation results. 3 - Server farms: task assignment policies, dimensioning. 4 - Network performance evaluation: models for multiple access, packet scheduling, routing in packet and circuit-switched networks, congestion control, and service guarantees; economic principles of traffic management. 5 - Optimization: mathematical programming models for network and system optimization involving routing, dimensioning, traffic protection, server location, and critical node detection; heuristic algorithms.

Prerequisites

1st cycle in Telecommunications and Informatics Engineering, or Electrical and Computer Engineering, or Informatics and Computer Engineering, or equivalent.

Cross Competence Component

Critical and Innovative Thinking - The laboratory works involve components of strategic thinking, critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving strategies, without explicit assessment. Intrapersonal Competencies - Performing the laboratory works involves components of productivity and time management, stress management, proactivity and initiative, intrinsic motivation and decision making, without explicit assessment. Interpersonal Skills - In the assessment of the laboratory work reports, 10% of the grading is assigned to the form of the reports. In the evaluation of the practical component, 10% of the grading is assigned to the ability to work as a team.

Laboratorial Component

Laboratory works involving performance evaluation, simulation and optimization of networks and systems, performed with the aid of R (or equivalent).

Programming And Computing Component

All laboratory works involve R programming. The evaluation percentage in this component is 50%.

Ethical Principles

All members of a group are responsible for the group’s work In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used. In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.