Fractal Network Traac Modeling: Past, Present, and Future

The discovery of a fractal phenomenon in computer network and compressed packet video traac has added a new dimension to teletraac modeling and analysis. But some of the recent research eeort on the modeling and analysis of the fractal phenomena have generated results that are seemingly confusing or contradictory. The goal of this study is to correctly digest the recent contributions, examine the current status, and lay out research directions of teletraac research in the area of fractal network traac modeling and analysis. By doing so, we hope to provide a uniied approach to the understanding of the role and implications of fractal behavior in traac engineering for emerging networks such as B-ISDN and Integrated Services Internet.