Abstract
This paper describes a computer package for the investigation of the capacity requirements of computer networks, and how it has been applied to GULFNET, the research network of the Arab Gulf States. The package is based on a mathematical model that considers various factors including: network topology, traffic streams, routing, traffic flow through links, delay and capacity. The model is distinguished for its generality and performance criterion. It permits each traffic stream between any pair of nodes to be independent of other streams; and it allows constraints to be specified on the maximum link delay, maximum path delay, and average overall delay. The application of the package to GULFNET demonstrates its practical use under different circumstances, and provides useful results.