Abstract: Methods, apparatuses and systems directed to improving the efficiency of bandwidth allocation schemes by adapting to slow-start mechanisms associated with network communications protocols, such as the TCP/IP protocol suite. In one implementation, the present invention scales down the initial target rate assigned to a data flow to a fraction of an initial estimate of the effective rate capacity of the communications path between two hosts. As packets are received, the target rate is gradually increased, eventually up to the detected rate capacity of the communications path. Implementations of the present invention improve the efficiency of bandwidth allocation by reducing the over-allocation of bandwidth to data flows during the slow-start phase, leaving more bandwidth available to other data flows.

Abstract: Methods, apparatuses and systems directed to an adaptive partitioning mechanism responsive to observed latency conditions in a communications network. Embodiments of the present invention can be configured to adapt to changing network conditions and ensure that selected network applications meet desired QoS levels. In one implementation, the present invention provides a mechanism that adjusts the minimum bandwidth setting corresponding to a given partition in response to observed latency. According to one implementation, a latency threshold is configured relative to local queuing latency or a latency metric corresponding to the network itself. A process modulates the minimum bandwidth setting associated with one or more partitions in response to observed latency relative to the configured threshold.

Abstract: Methods, apparatuses and systems directed to improving the efficiency of bandwidth allocation schemes by adapting to slow-start mechanisms associated with network communications protocols, such as the TCP/IP protocol suite. In one implementation, the present invention scales down the initial target rate assigned to a data flow to a fraction of an initial estimate of the effective rate capacity of the communications path between two hosts. As packets are received, the target rate is gradually increased, eventually up to the detected rate capacity of the communications path. Implementations of the present invention improve the efficiency of bandwidth allocation by reducing the over-allocation of bandwidth to data flows during the slow-start phase, leaving more bandwidth available to other data flows.

Abstract: Methods, apparatuses and systems directed to an aggregate bandwidth utilization control scheme including fair share bandwidth allocation and dynamic allocation of bandwidth in response to detected traffic utilization. In one implementation, the present invention includes a weighted, fair share aggregate bandwidth allocation mechanism that dynamically responds to observed bandwidth utilization to provide unutilized or excess bandwidth to flows and partitions that require it. In another implementation, the present invention features a weighted fair share allocation scheme for hierarchical partition configurations. In other implementations, the present invention provides a per-flow target rate assignment mechanism that prevents spiraling decline of data flow rates.

Abstract: Methods, apparatuses and systems directed to improving the efficiency of bandwidth allocation schemes by adapting to slow-start mechanisms associated with network communications protocols, such as the TCP/IP protocol suite. In one implementation, the present invention scales down the initial target rate assigned to a data flow to a fraction of an initial estimate of the effective rate capacity of the communications path between two hosts. As packets are received, the target rate is gradually increased, eventually up to the detected rate capacity of the communications path. Implementations of the present invention improve the efficiency of bandwidth allocation by reducing the over-allocation of bandwidth to data flows during the slow-start phase, leaving more bandwidth available to other data flows.