Network simulator (NTSIM)-a benchmark prototype network architecture

In order to develop, test and debug different types of protocols and software for network design, a complete prototype network is required. Further, the porting of software on various nodes, bridges, routers and gateways requires some man-hours for the design of the final product. A network simulator (NTSIM) is presented which alleviates some of the above mentioned problems. NTSIM allows the designers to create networks, nodes, bridges and gateways on one computer system, and then develop, test and debug their protocol and software on this simulated benchmark prototype network setup. NTSIM can be used as a learning tool for teaching courses on programming concepts of data communications and computer networks. NTSIM is written in C, and is driven by its own multi-tasking kernel built on top of DOS on a personal computer. The data structures for creating individual networks, nodes, routers and the physical channel are discussed. Other feasible applications and future development issues are also discussed.<<ETX>>