Dynamic Bandwidth Management
in ATM Networks
Matthieu Verdier, David Griffin
Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering,
University College London, Torrington Place, London WC1E 7JE, UK,
M.Verdier@ee.ucl.ac.uk, D.Griffin@ee.ucl.ac.uk, Tel.: +44 171 319 3557
Panos Georgatsos
Algosystems S.A., 4, Sardeon Str., 171 21 N. Smyrni, Athens, Greece,
pgeorgat@algo.com.gr, Tel.: +30 1 93 10 281
Abstract
This paper describes a system for dynamic bandwidth management of Virtual Path
Connections in ATM networks. A two level hierarchical approach is taken
consisting of network planning functions which take place on a longer time scale
than the bandwidth distribution functions which attempt to track the usage of the
VPCs in terms of the switched VCCs admitted onto them. The paper concentrates on
approaches for the latter of these sets of functions and places them in the context of
a larger system for network survivability and availability as studied by the ACTS
REFORM project.
1. Introduction
The aim of the REFORM project (EU ACTS project AC208) [7] [8] [9] is to specify,
implement and test a reliable system that offers ATM, multi-class, switched services.
Generally speaking, network reliability entails: network survivability and network
availability. Network survivability refers to the necessary functions to guarantee a continuous
service for established connections in cases of failures occurring within the network. Network
availability refers to the optimal configuration and operation of the network at all times, to
accept successfully the highest potential amount of new service requests.
Within the REFORM system, network survivability is implemented by means of an
ATM layer protection switching mechanism. This mechanism targets at the reconfiguration of
the VP layer infrastructure by switching the failed VPCs to standby (predetermined)
alternative VPCs. The full methodology, including restoration resource control protocols and
network reconfiguration algorithms that go along with this mechanism are documented in [8]