Fast prototyping of network protocols through ns-3 simulation model reuse

In the networking research and development field, one recurring problem faced is the duplication of effort to write first simulation and then implementation code. We posit an alternative development process that takes advantage of the built in network emulation features of Network Simulator 3 (ns-3) and allows developers to share most code between simulation and implementation of a protocol. Tests show that ns-3 can handle a data plane processing large packets, but has difficulties with small packets. When using ns-3 for implementing the control plane of a protocol, we found that ns-3 can even outperform a dedicated implementation.

► Traditional network protocol development incurs duplication of effort and inconsistency problems. ► The ns-3 simulator has an emulation mode that allows for faster and more consistent protocol development. ► Tests show that ns-3 can process well large data plane packets in emulation mode. ► Results demonstrate that ns-3 can run a control plane protocol faster than a dedicated implementation.