Abstract

A Wavelet based tool for the analysis of long range dependence is introduced and a related semiparametric estimator of the Hurst parameter. The estimator is shown to be unbiased under very general conditions, and efficient under Gaussian assumptions. It can be implemented very efficiently allowing the direct analysis of very large data sets, and is highly robust against the presence of deterministic trends, as well as allowing their detection and identification. Statistical, computational and numerical comparisons are made against traditional estimators including that of Whittle. The estimator is used to perform a thorough analysis of the long range dependence in Ethernet traffic traces. New features are found with important implications for the choice of valid models for performance evaluation. A study of mono vs multi-fractality is also performed, and a preliminary study of the stationarity with respect to the Hurst parameter and deterministic trends.

Citations