Performability analysis of multi-layer restoration in a satellite network

The ability of an IP backbone network to deliver robust and dependable communications relies on quickly restoring service after failures. Service-level agreements (SLAs) between a network service provider and customers typically include overall availability and performance objectives. To achieve the desired SLA, we have developed a methodology for the combined analysis of performance and reliability (performability) of networks across multiple layers by modeling the probabilistic failure state space in detail and analyzing different restoration alternatives. This methodology has been used to analyze large commercial IP-over-Optical layer networks. In this paper we extend our methodology to evaluate restoration approaches for an IP-based satellite backbone network. Because of the environment in which they operate (long delay links, frequent impairments), satellite networks pose an interesting challenge to typical restoration strategies. We describe the potential multi-layer restoration alternatives and compare their performability. Interestingly, while it is commonly thought that SONET ring restoration at the lower layer improves overall reliability, we find that it may not always improve performability in this environment.