Real Time Management of Virtual Paths

We propose a simple and robust automatic strategy for managing SDH/SONET and/or ATM virtual paths in real time to handle slow tra c variations. It consists of on-line measurements of o ered tra cs followed by the design and possible implementation of a new virtual path network in a repeated cycle. Methods and parameters for tra c measurements and network updating are studied and optimised to achieve maximal tra c carrying capability at minimal cost. Applying our strategy to networks subject to partially unknown, variable tra cs we discover a considerable adaptivity, large savings in transmission capacity, and a performance far better than achieved by deterministic management.