Identification of Availability and Performance Bottlenecks in Cloud Computing Systems: an approach based on hierarchical models and sensitivity analysis.

Abstract

Cloud computing paradigm is able to reduce costs of acquisition and maintenance of computer systems, and enables the balanced management of resources according to the demand. Hierarchical and composite analytical models are suitable for describing performance and dependability of cloud computing systems in a concise manner, dealing with the huge number of components which constitute such kind of system. That approach uses distinct sub-models for each system level and the measures obtained in each sub-model are integrated to compute the measures for the whole system. Identification of bottlenecks in hierarchical models might be difficult yet, due to the large number of parameters and their distribution among distinct modeling levels and formalisms. This thesis proposes methods for evaluation and detection of bottlenecks of cloud computing systems. The methodology is based on hierarchical modeling and parametric sensitivity analysis techniques tailored for such a scenario. This research introduces methods to build unified sensitivity rankings when distinct modeling formalisms are combined. These methods are embedded in the Mercury software tool, providing an automated sensitivity analysis framework for supporting the process. Distinct case studies helped in testing the methodology, encompassing hardware and software aspects of cloud systems, from basic infrastructure level to applications that are hosted in private clouds. The case studies showed that the proposed approach is helpful for guiding cloud systems designers and administrators in the decision-making process, especially for tune-up and architectural improvements. It is possible to employ the methodology through an optimization algorithm proposed here, called Sensitive GRASP. This algorithm aims at optimizing performance and dependability of computing systems that cannot stand the exploration of all architectural and configuration possibilities to find the best quality of service. This is especially useful for cloud-hosted services and their complex underlying infrastructures.