Network Emulation vs. Simulation, what’s the difference?
Article Network Simulation
Network simulation refers to the ability to replicate the behavior of real networks in software. In simulation you create a model of the real/expected system. The fidelity of the simulation can vary from abstract to high fidelity. This allows experts and end users to understand how the system will behave, enabling them to design better network design and protocols or waveforms.

QualNet is a network simulator for wired and wireless networks. It is a system-level tool that models the entire network end-to-end (from a user on the ground, to base stations, relays, satellites and routers, to other end-users). A network simulator typically runs completely in the virtual world, i.e. The only interaction it has is with users controlling the simulation and other simulators (like SAF/CGF tools).

Network Emulation
Network emulation refers to the ability to replicate the behavior of real networks in software (like simulation) and use extremely high fidelity models that replicate the packet/message formatting, byte order and other details. Emulated networks running in software can directly interact with real systems. This interconnection can be so seamless that a real application or protocol/waveform on a real device may not know that it is interacting or running on a virtual/emulated device.

EXata is a network emulator. In emulation mode it runs in real-time and can connect with real applications, devices and networks. EXata uses simulated & emulated protocols for communications inside the virtual network and emulated protocols for communicating with the real network.

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Article ID: 61 Created On: 09 Dec 2009 5:32 PM

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