The traffic generation rate can be modified by changing application properties, and is given by the formula
Factors Affecting Traffic Generation Rate
1. Packet Size
- Increasing the packet size leads to a higher generation rate, while reducing it decreases the rate.
- Generally, the packet size at the application layer should not exceed 1460 bytes, which corresponds to 1500 bytes after accounting for Transport and Network layer headers. Exceeding this limit can cause fragmentation.
2. Interarrival Time
- The interarrival time, measured in microseconds (μs), determines the interval between consecutive packets.
- Reducing the interarrival time increases the generation rate, while increasing it lowers the rate.
Ensuring steady state simulation
It is crucial to maintain a balance between the generation rate and the network's capacity. For steady-state simulations, the generation rate must not exceed the service rate, which is the maximum data rate supported by the bottleneck link in the network. Exceeding this rate can lead to congestion and packet drops, adversely affecting performance.
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