Methods for assessing the quality of data transmission in packet-based communication networks

DOI: 10.31673/2412-9070.2024.067820

Abstract

Nowadays, various quality assessment methods are employed by telecommunications operators to evaluate the performance of packet-switched communication networks. However, the methods currently in use do not always fully meet the requirements set forth in regulatory documents for network performance evaluation. This may be due to the fact that some methods fail to measure all the necessary quality indicators or because the quality control is applied only to a limited segment of the network, typically along specific paths where packet traffic flows. Such limitations hinder the ability to achieve a comprehensive assessment of network performance. To address these shortcomings, it is crucial to implement a more integrated approach to evaluating network quality. This can be done by utilizing a combination of methods that complement each other, ensuring "end-to-end" monitoring across all segments of the network and covering all necessary quality indicators. One of the significant challenges lies in the discrepancy between the quality control results for individual communication services and the overall quality control of packet-switched network performance. These discrepancies arise because the tasks addressed by specific control methods tend to be quite "narrow," focusing on particular layers of the OSI model, which limits the scope of the evaluation. Resolving these discrepancies requires developing a unified methodology that allows for simultaneous monitoring of both network performance and service quality. This will enable operators to measure the quality of packet traffic transmission as well as the quality of service delivery in an integrated manner. Such an approach will provide a more accurate representation of network performance and help eliminate the mismatches that occur when different evaluation methods are used in isolation. In this context, the task is to create a comprehensive set of methods that would enable the assessment of communication network performance in accordance with existing regulatory requirements. At the same time, this set of methods should ensure maximum coverage of both network and service-related quality indicators. The development of such a methodology is essential for providing a holistic view of network operation and service quality, ultimately leading to improved customer satisfaction and more effective network management.
Keywords: packet communication network, quality indicators, intrusive method, non-intrusive method.