Study of the probabilistic and temporal characteristics of wireless networks using the CSMA/CA access method

Abstract

Objectives. The aim of this study is to develop analytical methods to evaluate the probabilistic and temporal characteristics and performance of wireless networks using the CSMA/CA access method. These methods enable the process of selecting rational operating modes to be automated and the impact of collisions in networks implementing the 802.11 protocols to be reduced.Methods. The methods employed herein include reliability theory, theory of random processes, queuing theory, and the Laplace–Stieltjes transform.Results. A problem statement is presented and developed, along with an analytical method for evaluating the probabilistic and temporal characteristics and performance of wireless networks using the CSMA/CA access method. This method considers time constraints on information transmission, thus expanding the applicability of previously proposed analytical approaches for studying Ethernet local area networks. The analysis of networks that use the CSMA/CA access method was carried out. An original mathematical model was developed that allows evaluating various characteristics of packet transmission processes in wireless networks under time constraints on the transmission. These characteristics include latency, packet transfer time, node load, and network performance. A software package was developed to simplify the analysis and evaluation of various operation modes of wireless networks using the CSMA/CA access method.Conclusions. We demonstrate the need for developing nested analytical models describing packet transmission processes in wireless networks under time constraints on link-layer transmission. This implies the development of more complex models for more exact description of packet transmission processes in such networks. The software package developed herein enables the various options for the functioning of the network to be studied and analytical calculations to be performed. Calculations were carried out, in order to assess the probabilistic and temporal characteristics of packet transmission processes and the wireless network performance. The research involved varying the number of workstations and the intensity of packet flows entering the network nodes under the time constraint on packet transmission. The application of the developed mathematical models will be useful in creating and optimizing wireless networks such as Wi-Fi networks, networks based on the IEEE 802.11 standard, and other data transmission systems using the CSMA/CA access method. Such models and the analysis based on them will be useful in optimizing network performance, adjusting parameters, as well as selecting the capacity and configuration of wireless networks.