Load prediction in communications network

The prediction of load in communications networks provides a scientific basis for conserving power that is currently attracting considerable interest. This paper reports the results of experiments to predict communications network load using real network data. The problem considered is simply to predict whether load is “generally” increasing, decreasing or unchanged in the immediate future. Various linear and non-linear predictive models were investigated. We conclude that the most efficient solution to the problem considered is a subtle combination of a linear regression model and a highly reactive model applied to the data aggregated at two levels of granularity.