Cross-Layer optimization in a satellite communication network

Abstract: This thesis aims to improve a satellite communication network which carries both data streams and Voice over IP (VoIP) communication sessions with resource reservation. The resource reservations are made using the standard protocols for Traffic Engineering: MPLS-TE and RSVP-TE. The goal of this thesis project is to optimize the number of concurrent VoIP calls that can be made, in order to use the available bandwidth while maintaining a guaranteed Quality of Service (QoS) level, which is not possible in the existing system. This thesis proposes and evaluates a solution to this optimization problem in the specific context of a satellite modem system that was developed by Thales Communications. This optimization improves the system's ability to carry VoIP communications through better use of the available transmission resources. A solution to this problem would also increase the  exibility in bandwidth allocation within the modem system, and could provide a framework for future development. The proposed solution allows all of the reservable bandwidth to be used.  The amount of reservable bandwidth must be at least a little lower than the channel's available bandwidth in order to avoid congestion. Some areas of future work are proposed.