Computer Networks and Systems: Queueing Theory and Performance

In this review of Computer Networks and Systems: Queueing Theory and Performance Evaluation the bottom line is clear: this book is a solid, self-contained introduction to performance evaluation for a first course, and its single biggest reason to buy is the thorough, theory-first presentation of queuing methods applied to networks. The reviewer found the text to be steady in pace and focused on fundamentals, making it suitable for students and engineers who need a rigorous foundation in modeling system delays and throughput rather than a quick practical how-to.

Key Features

• Self-contained treatment: The text covers queuing theory from the ground up so readers can follow a complete course without needing many external references.
• Course-ready organization: Material is arranged for a first course in performance evaluation, helping instructors and students follow a coherent syllabus.
• Theory applied to networks: Concepts are presented with networking systems in mind, making it easier to see how queuing affects delays, utilization, and system behavior.
• Focused scope: Emphasis stays on performance evaluation rather than broad networking topics, which helps readers concentrate on analytical techniques.
• Textbook style: The writing supports learning and classroom use, with a structure suitable for lectures and problem sets.

Who It's For

This book is best for upper-level undergraduates, graduate students, and practicing engineers who need a rigorous introduction to queuing theory and performance modeling for networks and systems. It is particularly useful for anyone teaching or taking a first course in performance evaluation, since the coverage is structured to support a semester-long curriculum.

Those looking for a practical handbook of implementation examples, hands-on lab exercises, or an overview of modern protocols should look elsewhere; this text is more theoretical and focused on foundational analysis than on step-by-step software or system configuration guidance.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comprehensive, standalone coverage that supports learning without many outside sources.
• Well-organized for a first course, making it straightforward to build lecture sequences and assignments.
• Clear emphasis on networking applications of queuing, aiding relevance for systems work.

Cons

• Limited practical implementation examples, so readers wanting code or lab exercises will need supplemental material.

Specifications

Title	Computer Networks and Systems: Queueing Theory and Performance Evaluation
Author	Thomas G. G. Robertazzi
Intended use	First course in performance evaluation
Coverage	Self-contained treatment of queuing theory
Subject area	Networks and performance modeling
Audience	Students and practicing engineers

Our Verdict

Computer Networks and Systems: Queueing Theory and Performance Evaluation is a focused, well-structured textbook that delivers a rigorous foundation in performance evaluation and queuing analysis. It is a good value for instructors and students who need a complete, theory-oriented course text, though practitioners seeking hands-on labs or implementation details will want to pair it with supplemental resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this book suitable for beginners?
The book is written for a first course, so motivated beginners with some background in probability and networking can follow it, but complete novices may need preliminary material.

Does it include practical lab exercises?
The text focuses on theory and course coverage; it does not emphasize hands-on lab work, so instructors may provide separate exercises.

Who is the author?
Thomas G. G. Robertazzi is credited as the author, and the book reflects a course-oriented approach to queuing theory and performance evaluation.