Date of Award

4-2006

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Department of Systems Engineering and Management

First Advisor

Michael R. Grimaila, PhD

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the throughput improvement afforded by the various TCP optimization techniques, with respect to a simulated geosynchronous satellite system, to provide a cost justification for the implementation of a given enhancement technique. The research questions were answered through model and simulation of a satellite transmission system via a Linux-based network topology; results of the simulation were analyzed primarily via a non-parametric method to ascertain performance differences between the various TCP optimization techniques. It was determined that each technique studied, which included the Space Communication Protocol Standard-Transport Protocol (SCPS-TP), window scale, selective acknowledgements (SACKs), and combinational use of the window scale and SACK mechanisms, provided varying levels of improvement as compared to a standard TCP implementation. In terms of throughput, SCPS-TP provided the greatest overall improvement, with window scale and window scale/SACK techniques providing significant benefits at low levels of bit error rate (BER). The SACK modification improved throughput performance at high levels of BER, but performed at levels comparable to standard TCP during scenarios with lower BER levels. These findings will be of assistance to communications planners in deciding whether or not to implement a given enhancement or deciding which technique to utilize.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-GIR-ENV-06M-08

DTIC Accession Number

ADA449723

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