This book provides a comprehensive view of the methods and approaches for performance evaluation of computer networks. It offers a clear and logical introduction to the topic, covering both fundamental concepts and practical aspects. It enables the reader to answer a series of questions regarding performance evaluation in modern computer networking scenarios, such as What, where, and when to measure?, Which time scale is more appropriate for a particular measurement and analysis?, Experimentation, simulation or emulation? Why?, and How do I best design a sound performance evaluation plan?.
The book includes concrete examples and applications in the important aspects of experimentation, simulation and emulation, and analytical modeling, with strong support from the scientific literature. It enables the identification of common shortcomings and highlights where students, researchers, and engineers should focus to conduct sound performance evaluation.