Congestion Control in Computer Networks: Trends and Issues

Popular myths that cheaper memory, high-speed links and high-speed processors will solve the problem of congestion in computer networks are shown to be false. A simple definition for congestion based on supply and demand of resources is proposed and is then used to classify various congestion schemes. The issues that make the congestion problem a difficult one are discussed, and then the architectural decisions that affect the design of a congestion scheme are presented. It is argued that long-, medium- and short-term congestion problems require different solutions. Some of the recent schemes are brifly surveyed, and areas for further research are discussed.