Systems problems in communications networks

Network configuration, routing and flow control design problems in communication networks present opportunities for application of systems theoretic methodologies. In many instances, past approaches to these design problems have been ad hoc in nature and have left many questions open concerning the effectiveness of the resultant design. Furthermore, recent interest in satellite communication networks has introduced a new set of problems. Here, network configuration problems are formulated as discrete optimization problems. Routing and flow control problem formulations are based on a state variable model involving queues and flows. This paper will point out problem areas where system theoretic ideas may be used in the design of communication networks.