On the validity of fluid-dynamic models for data networks

Simulators have been acknowledged as one of the most flexible tool in studying and evaluating network performance. Variuous approaches have been followed in data networks modeling. The present paper explores the range of applicability of a fluid-dynamic model, proposed in [5], able to describe the load evolution of a data network. Looking at intermediate time scale, it is assumed that packets are conserved, and hence the packets density obey to a conservation law. The assumption underlying the model is the behaviour of the information loss probability from which the flux is derived. Here the validity of the above hypothesis and the rules introduced to solve dynamics at nodes are discussed. In particular packet loss estimations using queueing models have been compared with the assumed loss probability. Moreover a TCP throughput simulation is proposed to evaluate the feasibility of the "tent" flux.