Using Load Transformations for the Specification of Arrival Processes in Simulation and Analysis
In this paper the innovative approach of load transformation is used to derive valid load models for secondary loads in computer networks, as they can be observed at lower-layer interfaces of protocol stacks. We apply the technique of load transformation onto a load represented by batch Markovian arrival process (BMAP) models and choose as concrete load transformation the practically relevant token bucket mechanism, which is widely used in current networks. We are able to determine closed-form analytical solutions to describe the transformed load. Investigations by means of simulations of the quality of our analytical models reflecting token-bucket-based load transformations underline the high level of accuracy and validity of the predicted secondary load. We also present a tool implementing different transformation functionalities which can be used for the specification of arrival processes for simulative and analytic performance evaluation.
load transformation computer networks workload modeling simulation tools markov models