Implementation of software based traffic separation at the access layer of hierarchical design model: the case of Vodacom Tanzania Limited

This dissertation presents the study on approaches used by ISP in Tanzania to separate traffic in the access network. The dissertation also presents the effective way of traffic separation, whereby multiple hardware used to separate traffic before has been replaced with single hardware. The traffic separation technique is based on creating logical links (software based) for each traffic type inside single physical link, providing a differentiated QoS support for each type of traffic according to its individual QoS requirements. As the dissertation contribution, it has investigated and presented different approaches used by ISPs in Tanzania to deliver access network, corresponding problems and strengths. The design of a single physical link access network with capability to support multiple services of the same QoS parameter guarantee as before is proposed. This is an effective way of traffic separation in the access network as it saves cost and provides lots of flexibility to network, ISP and customers.The presented results obtained after implementation of multiple services single hardware showed that, performance for all the services were similar, which means that the dissertation objectives were met. With obtained results, ISPs can be able to offer multiple services with cost effective approach now.