On Networks, Capacities, and Controls
Michelle Effros, CalTech, USA
Abstract:
Recent work has focused on extending the reach of information theory from small to large networks. The approach taken relies on the idea of reduction, a central strategy in computer science that is less commonly applied in communications. The reduction strategy yields simple arguments that uncover the most fundamental properties of networks: the nature of noise, the impact of dependence, and the consequences of delay. Reduction also provides a strategy for developing new computational tools for expanding the reach of information theory from small to large networks. These methods will be described, and the potential for generalizing these tools to problems of control across networks will be explored.