Virtual path bandwidth allocation in multiuser networks

We consider a multiuser network that is shared by noncooperative users. Each user sets up virtual paths that optimize its own selfish performance measure. This measure accounts for the guaranteed call level quality of service, as well as for the cost incurred for reserving the resource. The interaction among the user strategies is formalized as a noncooperative game. We show that the game has a unique Nash equilibrium and that it possesses a certain fairness property. We investigate the dynamics of this game and prove convergence to the Nash equilibrium of both a Gauss-Seidel scheme and a Jacobi scheme. We extend our study to various general network topologies. Finally, the formal results and some extensions thereof are tested by emulating the schemes on an experimental network. © 1997 IEEE.