Exploring the dynamics of packet switching network models

In this Thesis we study packet traffic dynamics in models of the ISO OSI Network Layer of packet switching data communication networks. We explore the effects of network connection topology coupled with routing algorithms on the spatio-temporal distribution of queue sizes in the network model. We investigate how network ensemble performance indicators capture the network model dynamics. In our work we consider both static and dynamic (adaptive) routing algorithms for various connectivity type network connection topologies. The exploration of this thesis follows and contributes to a stream of research in the area of simulation models and their applications to studying dynamics of packet switching network (PSN) models commenced by Dr. Lawniczak and her collaborators. The thesis also builds upon the recent thesis work by P. Zhao (Apr. 2003) and K. P. Maxie (Sept. 2003), that studied the performance of a PSN simulation model developed by A. T. Lawniczak, et al.