Self-tuning TCP traffic controller using gain margin specification

Abstract

The paper proposes a self-tuning active queue management (AQM) controller for Internet protocol (IP) routers supporting transmission control protocol (TCP) traffic in the Internet. Classical control theory is applied in the design to meet the frequency-domain-specification gain margin. The user can assign a proper gain margin to achieve good AQM performance. Simple equations for obtaining the AQM controller are derived. The designed AQM controller self-tunes, only when changes in Internet traffic have drifted the traffic monitoring parameter outside its specified interval, otherwise the self-tuning AQM controller remains unchanged. The OPNET® simulations used by the authors in single and in multiple bottleneck links demonstrate that, with the use of a self-tuning AQM controller in the routers, this AQM control system adapts very well to great fluctuations in the TCP traffic, thus providing the network with good stability robustness.