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Speed and Scalability White Paper (2002)

New network modeling software tools are proving that faster simulation speeds and greater scalability are achievable through smart architecture and optimized memory management. We discuss the critical factors that determine the speed of simulation, which is often the deciding factor in choosing a tool. We also show that speed and scalability are directly linked. Scalability means the simulator can support large volumes of traffic, complex node mobility and hundreds or thousands of devices and connections. We discuss how software developers build scalability into simulators. Finally, we give examples of the level of speed and scalability achievable with QualNet, a network simulator designed from the outset for maximum speed and scalability, with real-time simulation as an achievable goal.

Parallel Execution White Paper (2002)

Historically, modelers have been forced to choose either fast simulation or accurate results when working in discrete event simulation. We discuss commonly used methods of improving performance to avoid this tradeoff, including what the prerequisites are and how optimization is achieved. Parallel execution is arguably the best solution, and this paper discusses how a sequential model is "parallelized" to be executed in parallel. Finally, we present quantitative results from the successful parallellization of models in QualNet, a discrete event simulation software product for modeling networks. After reading this paper, modelers should be equipped to assess their model's potential for performance gains through parallelization, as well as alternatives for better performance outside of parallel execution.

MANET Scalability White Paper (2005)
Published at MILCOM 2004
co-authored by SNT and US Army RDECOM CERDEC STCD

As wireless ad hoc networks grow in size and complexity, the need to study and comprehend the scalability and behavior of these systems and their protocol components becomes essential. This paper presents a comprehensive study on the performance of common MANET (mobile ad hoc network) routing protocols in large-scale networks. The routing protocols used in this study include AODV, DSR, OLSR, and ZRP, which represents a good mix of reactive, proactive and hybrid protocols.

Network Centric Warfare White Paper (2006)

As warfighting becomes increasingly modernized through the use of network-centric warfare, communication becomes more and more critical to success. Adding communication effects to existing war games can be achieved through HLA, DIS, and TCP/IP sockets. We describe how the QualNet network simulator can be integrated to OTB, STRIVE, and MANA using HLA, DIS, and TCP/IP sockets respectively. Finally, we provide quantitative results from a MANA-QualNet simulation that show that detailed communication models greatly affect the outcome of battle simulations, generally for the worse.

Test and Evaluation of Network-centric Systems (2007)

New techniques employing highest fidelity, real-time network emulations are changing the way that network-centric systems are tested and evaluated. After early stage, abstracted simulations and before late stage full prototype testbeds, emulation plays an important role in evaluating network constructs. From the component level to the system-of-systems level, emulation enables network designers to test and evaluate the system, greatly reducing the cost and effort required to thoroughly test and validate throughout the design cycle.

Not all network simulators are capable of true emulation, however. To be a true replacement for a network, an emulation must support realtime speed, full packet fidelity, and transparency. Included in this White Paper is a case study featuring L-3 Communications' Multi-Role Tactical Common Data Link Network and how they use QualNet to develop, test and evaluate the technology.

QualNet is a network simulator that supports true network emulation. With parallel execution and highest fidelity models, QualNet has the scalability and interactivity required to test and evaluate the most advanced network-centric systems.