What is Network Emulation / Network Simulation?

Computer networks are complex and intricate by nature; there are many complicated components that need to be configured precisely for a network to function and enable successful communication between devices. When it comes to learning about network connectivity or planning to make changes on an existing network, it is simply not feasible to experiment on the live devices which are running a production network. Instead, tools such as network simulators or emulators need to be utilized. A network simulator can create a virtual environment that mimics an actual network, complete with servers, routers, switches and nodes, without having to buy expensive equipment to practice and hone skills on.

A network emulator or simulator is usually a software program installed on a PC, although there are some hardware versions as well. The program contains a variety of topological and device options for the user to choose from, and using the program they can construct a network which resides entirely within the program itself, yet mirrors what a real, functional network would contain. From the program, the user can then configure and virtually connect all the devices, creating a functional virtual network. The devices within the program are designed to act exactly like their real-world counterparts and these programs effectively behave the same way as real networks. The simulation programs are designed to predict real network behavior and interactions between the virtual devices.

When it comes to learning how to create and troubleshoot networks it can be hard for students to get hands on experience due to implications that network disruption can have on businesses. When studying complex subjects like routing and switching, it can be difficult for people to read the theory presented and then convert that information to practical uses. By using a network simulation, the person can take skills learned and immediately apply them to an environment similar to those found in the real world. There are several situations a network simulator can be used in. Most often, these tools are used by students to study and experiment with network technology.

As a learning tool, a network simulator helps learners understand concepts they have just learned and allows them see how the various pieces of technology need to fit and work together for a network to function. Simulators allow students to create a base, working network which they can then experiment with. The simulator allows them to save a working copy of the network they can revert to if things start to go drastically wrong. With this virtual environment, students can make multiple changes to devices and learn via trial and error methods which instill valuable troubleshooting skills which are learnable only in this manner. With a virtual network, even if a student makes irreversible changes, the network can easily be reset without having to spend hours pinpointing mistakes and reconfiguring devices, a process that would be unavoidable with physical machines.

In addition to providing an inexpensive and safe learning environment, network simulators also provide an invaluable tool for network engineers who already work in the technology field. One of the greatest features of these tools is the ability to experiment with configurations and changes without causing damage or downtime to a real network.

Network engineers often have to carefully plan upgrades and migrations without causing downtime to an existing network. Due to the complex nature of networks, it can be hard to effectively plan for all changes and incidents that may occur. A network simulator can create an environment that closely mirrors the live environment. With the simulator, the engineer can then make changes to the virtual network without wreaking havoc on the real network and disrupting users. Changes can be tested before they go live, and any incidents that crop up can be addressed before they become live issues that can cause disruptions to production systems. When planning upgrades, migrations or design changes, it can be nerve wrecking to blindly plan for any issues that can possibly arise, but thankfully these tools can provide a safe environment to thoroughly test changes before they are actually made.

When it comes to learning about networks, or even planning changes to an existing network, simulations and emulators are an invaluable tool. They provide hands-on learning experiences and opportunities to experiment with devices and configurations without causing damage to real networks than can be devastating to repair. In the real world, a bad configuration change can be a career-ending mistake for even the most skilled engineer. Simulations provide engineers and students alike with a safe environment to learn and experiment in, building both skills and troubleshooting abilities.