A simple, rate-based traffic control solution for IPV4 networks using Linux-based hop-by-hop closed loop and queuing discipline implementation

Abstract

In this chapter an implementation of hop-by-hop closed loop mechanism for IPv4 networks has been proposed. The choice· of IPv4 network as the place where traffic control utilizing such a mechanism should be performed, as well as the choice of hopby- hop strategy for closed loop design has been motivated based on the comparison with possible alternative choices. Next, the design of a hop-by-hop closed loop algorithm for specific IPv4 network node (router) has been presented. The limitations of IPv4 protocol design taken from the perspective of the proposed closed loop design have been reviewed, and the solution, which is to use and extend features that are available in the current Linux kernel, has been shown. Finally, a simple, rate-based traffic control algorithm that utilizes the hop-by-hop implementation to limit the sending rate of the neighbour nodes according to the available bandwidth measured by the node that acts as the controller, has been proposed. Two practical experiments with the results showing the benefits of performing traffic control the proposed way have been also presented.