RFC 1242 (rfc1242) - Page 1 of 12
Benchmarking terminology for network interconnection devices
Alternative Format: Original Text Document
Network Working Group S. Bradner, Editor
Request for Comments: 1242 Harvard University
July 1991
Benchmarking Terminology for Network Interconnection Devices
Status of this Memo
This memo provides information for the Internet community. It does
not specify an Internet standard. Distribution of this memo is
unlimited.
Abstract
This memo discusses and defines a number of terms that are used in
describing performance benchmarking tests and the results of such
tests. The terms defined in this memo will be used in additional
memos to define specific benchmarking tests and the suggested format
to be used in reporting the results of each of the tests. This memo
is a product of the Benchmarking Methodology Working Group (BMWG) of
the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF).
1. Introduction
Vendors often engage in "specsmanship" in an attempt to give their
products a better position in the marketplace. This usually involves
much "smoke & mirrors" used to confuse the user. This memo and
follow-up memos attempt to define a specific set of terminology and
tests that vendors can use to measure and report the performance
characteristics of network devices. This will provide the user
comparable data from different vendors with which to evaluate these
devices.
2. Definition format
Term to be defined. (e.g., Latency)
Definition:
The specific definition for the term.
Discussion:
A brief discussion about the term, it's application
and any restrictions on measurement procedures.
Measurement units:
The units used to report measurements of this
term, if applicable.
Benchmarking Methodology Working Group