Accuracy analysis of data aggregation for network monitoring

The quality of computing certain aggregation functions based on incomplete measurements for the purpose of distributed network monitoring is considered. Network monitoring plays a fundamental role in network management systems by providing timely information on the network status, which is crucial for administration purposes. To reduce network overhead and for easier assimilation, this information is usually presented by calculating a few key aggregate metrics. The aggregates are periodically computed from a large number of detailed events collected continuously during the course of the network operations. Under errors induced by network delays, the accuracy of typical aggregation functions used in network management systems is evaluated both analytically and by simulations. The results provide a quantifiable trade-off between accuracy and timeliness of the information acquired, which can then be used to design and optimize network management systems.