Modelling Downlink Aggregation in Paced WLANs

We derive an analytic model of packet aggregation on the the downlink of an 802.11 WLAN when packet arrivals are paced. The model is closed-form and so suitable for both analysis and design. We validate the model against both simulations and experimental measurements and we show its remarkable accuracy despite its simplicity. With proposed next generation architectures for over-the-top services it is straightforward to introduce packet pacing at the network edge and indeed it is this observation that motivates the current work. With this in mind the model developed here provides a new basis for the analysis and design of next generation edge networks.