Voice and Video over Gigabit Ethernet and ATM Backbone Networks: A Simulation Study

Methodology

Commonly used network performance evaluation methods are analytical modeling, test-bed measurements and computer simulation. The performance of GbE and ATM can be evaluated using analytical modeling, test-bed, computer simulation and/or combination of two or more methods. An analytical model is based on mathematical formula and the results can be obtained by varying parameters within into mathematical equations. Although the analytical modeling can be used for formulating a new algorithm, there are weaknesses in experiment controllability and operation. Moreover, analytical modeling cannot represent the dynamic nature of data communication and have discrepancies when compared to a real-world experiment. Therefore, many leading network researchers have used computer simulation for the performance studies of telecommunication networks (Han, Jia, & Lin, 2007; Kargl & Schoch, 2007; Pawlikowski, Jeong, & Lee, 2002; Salah & Alkhoraidly, 2006). In addition, the analytical results are only based on simplistic network models and only meaningful asymptotically. In this research we use OPNET-based simulation and modeling to evaluate and compare the performance of GbE and ATM networks. The OPNET Modeler (OPNET Modeler) was selected because of its availability under academic program and simulation credibility worldwide. The network modeling is described next.