Interconnections for Computer Communications and Packet Networks

Interconnection networks are widely used in the design of a) multi-core processors, b) local and wide area network, c) high-performance switches and routers. The study of interconnection networks was initially motivated by the development of the telephone and super-computers in the past. Many of these principles are still being applied to new technologies and new interconnection topologies for multi-processor computers, packet networks, and data centers. The book presents the reader with interconnection concepts in terms that are simple to understand and transitions from simple to new technologies in a concise manner.

This book introduces different interconnection networks applied to different systems. Interconnection networks are used to communicate processing units in a multi-processor system, routers in communication networks, and servers in data centers. Queuing techniques are applied to interconnection networks to support a higher utilization of resources. There are different queuing strategies, and these determine not only the performance of the interconnection network, but also the set of requirements to make them work effectively and their cost. Routing algorithms are used to find routes to destinations and directions in what information travels. Additional properties, such as avoiding deadlocks and congestion, are sought. Effective routing algorithms need to be paired up with these networks. The book will introduce the most relevant interconnection networks, queuing strategies, and routing algorithm. It discusses their properties and how these leverage the performance of the whole interconnection system. In addition, the book covers additional topics for memory management and congestion avoidance, used to extract higher performance from the interconnection network.