On dropping sequences for RED

Abstract

In this note, we show how to compare the dropping sequences in the random early detection algorithm once all the parameters have been fixed. This is done for a single node, as well as for one TCP connection. The method proposed here uses convexity properties to provide comparing tools for all types of dropping schemes. In particular, we compare Bernoulli with uniform dropping. We also provide the optimal dropping scheme in terms of workload for the single node and end-to-end delay for the connection.