Scaling Theory For Information Networks

Main Category: Biology / Biochemistry
Also Included In: IT / Internet / E-mail
Article Date: 13 May 2008 - 1:00 PDT

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Biological and computing networks share important design constraints as they increase in scale.

Modern microprocessors contain billions of transistors in a few square centimeters, and the Internet connects half a billion hosts distributed over the surface area of the earth.

The mathematical framework used to describe biological scaling also predicts how networks distribute energy, materials and information in information networks, including brains, the Internet, and microprocessors.

The similarities between biological and technological networks are striking given that organisms evolved via natural selection while microprocessors are designed by engineers.

The paper uses biological scaling principles to predict power consumption in microprocessors.

Journal of the Royal Society Interface

Journal of the Royal Society Interface is the Society's cross-disciplinary publication promoting research at the interface between the physical and life sciences. It offers rapidity, visibility and high-quality peer review and is ranked fourth in JCR'S multidisciplinary category.

www.publishing.royalsociety.org/interface