Congestion control algorithms were implemented for the Internet nearly two decades ago, but mathematical models of congestion control in such a large-scale are relatively new. This text presents models for the development of new protocols that can help make Internet data transfers virtually loss- and delay-free. Introduced are tools from optimization, control theory, and stochastic processes integral to the study of congestion control algorithms. Features and topics include:* A presentation of Kelly's convex program formulation of resource allocation on the Internet; * A solution to the resource allocation problem which can be implemented in a decentralized manner, both in the form of congestion control algorithms by end users and as congestion indication mechanisms by the routers of the network; * A discussion of simple stochastic models for random phenomena on the Internet, such as very short flows and arrivals and departures of file transfer requests. Intended for graduate students and researchers in systems theory and computer science, the text assumes basic knowledge of first-year, graduate-level control theory, optimization, and stochastic processes, but the key prerequisites are summarized in an appendix for quick reference. The work's wide range of applications to the study of both new and existing protocols and control algorithms make the book of interest to researchers and students concerned with many aspects of large-scale information flow on the Internet.

The Internet is nearly two decades old, but congestion control algorithms for data transfers over the Internet are relatively new. This book presents models for development of new protocols that help make the Internet virtually loss- and delay-free. It introduces tools from optimization, control theory, and stochastic processes that are integral to the study of congestion control, and includes a wide range of applications. It details solutions to resource allocation problems that can be applied by routers and end users of the network.

Preface.- Introduction.- Resource Allocation.- Congestion Control: A Decentralized Solution.- Relationship to Current Internet Protocols.- Linear Analysis with Delay: The single link Case.- Linear Analysis with Delay: The network case.- Global Stability for a Single Link and Single Flow.- Stochastic Models and their Deterministic Limits.- Connection-level Models.- Real-Time Sources and Distributed Admission Control.- Conclusions.- References.- Index.