Long-range dependence of internet traffic aggregates

Abstract

This paper studies and discusses the presence of LRD in network traffic after classifying flows into traffic aggregates. Following DiffServ architecture principles, generic QoS application requirements and the transport protocol in use, a classification criterion of Internet traffic is established. Using fractal theory, the resulting traffic classes are analysed. The Hurst parameter is estimated and used as a measure of traffic burstiness and LRD in each traffic class. The traffic volume per class and per interface is also measured. The study uses real traffic traces collected at a University of Minho major backbone router in different periods of network activity.