ISSN:
1432-0452
Keywords:
Alternating-bit protocol
;
Communication protocols
;
Convergence
;
Self-stabilization
;
System specification
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Computer Science
Notes:
Summary Astabilizing system is one which if started at any state is guaranteed to reach a state after which the system cannot deviate from its intended specification. In this paper, we propose a new variation of this notion, called pseudo-stabilization. Apseudo-stabilizing system is one which if started at any state is guaranteed to reach a state after which the system does not deriate from its intended specification. Thus, the difference between the two notions comes down to the difference between “cannot” and “does not” — a difference that hardly matters in many practical situations. As it happens, a number of well-known systems, for example the alternating-bit protocol, are pseudo-stabilizing but not stabilizing. We conclude that one should not try to make any such system stabilizing, especially if stabilization comes at a high price.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF02278854
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