Buffer Sizing for TCP Flows in 802.11e WLANs

We consider the task of sizing buffers for TCP flows in 802.11e WLANs. A number of fundamental new issues arise compared to wired networks. These include that the mean service rate is dependent on the level of channel contention and packet inter-service times vary stochastically due to the random nature of CSMA/CA operation. We find that these considerations lead naturally to a requirement for adaptation of buffer sizes in response to changing network conditions.