Network Simulators: A Case Study

Using Networks on a test bed is costly affair. It becomes infeasible to deploy a complete test bed containing multiple networked computers, routers and data links to validate and verify a certain network protocol or a specific network algorithm in the network research area. Under these circumstances the network simulators saves a lot of money and time in accomplishing this task. Network simulators are also particularly useful in allowing the network designers to change the existing protocols in a controlled and reproducible manner besides testing new networking protocols. The present study presents a comprehensive survey of current network simulators. It is hoped that the present survey would serve as good reference source for researchers in selecting the appropriate network simulators for their research or practical requirements.