TCP congestion control has evolved dramatically over the past 40 years, with each algorithm designed to address specific network challenges. This guide covers the full spectrum: from Tahoe's slow start and Reno's AIMD model, through Vegas's delay-based approach, to modern algorithms like CUBIC for high-BDP networks, Hybla for satellite links, DCTCP for data centers, and BBR's model-based pacing. Understanding these algorithms is crucial for backend developers and network engineers who need to optimize throughput, reduce latency, and handle packet loss in diverse environments. The article explains the core mechanisms of each algorithm and their practical implications, helping readers choose the right approach for their specific use case. Whether you're tuning a cloud service, designing a real-time application, or managing a global CDN, this knowledge directly impacts performance and user experience.
Comprehensive survey of TCP congestion control algorithms from Tahoe to BBR, with practical guidance for network performance optimization.