Analysis, Prediction and Optimization of Quality of Service in Computer Networks--NetPredict, Inc., 1010 El Camino Real, Suite 335, Manlo Park, CA 94025-4349; (310) 265-1689
Dr. Sergio Guarro, Principal Investigator
Dr. Bjorn Frogner, Business Official
DOE Grant No. DE-FG03-98ER82626
Amount: $74,940

New tools are needed to proactively manage the so-called Quality of Service provided to the end-users of computer networks, such as DOE's researchers. In particular, it is important to determine the impact of network and load modifications on Quality of Service before new applications are deployed. This project will develop an integrated suite of analytical software tools for network Quality of Service management. These tools will provide network managers with the capability to analyze, predict and help optimize the Quality of Service of an integrated system of applications, hosts, clients and networks, by combining the use of measured data and network device models. In Phase I, macro-level network models and trending techniques will be developed and network device performance models will be developed and validated. A framework and algorithms for network simulation and optimization will be developed. Finally, the architecture and user interface requirements for the associated software will be defined.

Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: By advancing the state-of-the-art of network management into true predictive and decision-support capabilities, large government and commercial markets are believed to exist for the resulting software tools.