Bulk File Download Throughput in a Single Station WLAN with Nonzero Propagation Delay

TL;DR

This paper models and analyzes TCP-controlled bulk file transfer throughput in a single station WLAN considering nonzero propagation delay, using a BCMP queueing network approach validated by simulations.

Contribution

It introduces a novel analytical model for WLAN throughput with propagation delay using a BCMP network framework, validated by simulation results.

Findings

Model accurately predicts throughput with nonzero delay

Close match between theoretical analysis and simulations

Provides insights into WLAN performance under delay conditions

Abstract

We analyze TCP-controlled bulk file transfers in a single station (STA) WLAN with nonzero propagation delay between the file server and the WLAN. Our approach is to model the flow of packets as a closed queueing network (BCMP network) with 3 service centres, one each for the Access Point (AP) and the STA, and the third for the propagation delay. The service rates of the first two are obtained by analyzing the WLAN MAC. Simulations show a very close match with the theory.