Introduction to
Networks
Network Simulator
Comparison Report
Ziad khaled
231017416
1. NS-2 (Network Simulator 2)
• Type: Open source
• Development: C++ and Tcl
• Protocol Support: TCP, UDP, FTP, HTTP, etc.
• Advantages: Highly flexible, widely used in
academia.
• Disadvantages: No GUI, performance issues,
steep learning curve, outdated.
• Missing: Graphical User Interface (GUI).
2. NS-3
Type: open-source
Developed in: C++ and Python bindings
Protocol support: IPv6, Wireless, and modern
networks
Advantages: Modern design, modular structure
Disadvantages: No native GUI, too hard to learn.
Lacks: Graphical Interface
3. GNS3 Graphical Network Simulator 3
Type: Open-source
GUI: Graphical interface, drag-and-drop network
design.
Real hardware integration: Can be used to simulate
real network hardware.
Pros: Intuitive GUI, real device simulation
Cons: Resource-intensive, Setup complexity
Lacking: Limited support for protocols other than
Cisco.
4. OMNeT++
Type: Open source
Development: C++ with an integrated GUI IDE.
Architecture: Modular architecture for a wide range of
network types.
Positive: Comprehensive GUI, highly extensible.
Negative: Research-focused; it has a learning curve.
Lacking: Realistic network modeling of real-world
networks.
5. Packet Tracer
Type: Free but proprietary(Cisco).
GUI: Fully Graphical interface.
Pros: Learning tool, easy GUI.
Cons: Limited protocol support cannot be used for
advanced research
Lack: Non-Cisco device simulation.
6. Mininet
Type: Open-source,
Focus: Emulates SDN.
CLI-based: No GUI.
Pros: Strong Efficient SDN simulation, light.
Cons: No GUI; limited respect to traditional networks
Lacking: Graphical Interface.
7. QualNet
License: Commercial, hence paid.
High-Performance: It supports large networks.
GUI: It has an integrated graphical interface.
Pros: Large-scale network support, high fidelity.
Cons: Very expensive, difficult learning.
Lacking: Free version.
8. OPNET - Riverbed Modeler
License: Commercial
Protocol Support: A wide array of protocols is
supported.
GUI: Advanced graphical interface.
Pros: High precision, industry standard.
Cons: Too expensive, difficult to learn.
Lacking: Free version.
9. CORE - Common Open Research Emulator
Type: Open-source.
Real-time network emulation: Allows testing of
network configurations.
GUI: Simple interactive GUI.
Pros: Easy-to-use GUI, real-time testing.
Cons: Performance limitations, missing advanced
features.
Lacking: Scalability.
10. Eve-NG - Emulated Virtual Environment - Next
Generation
Type: Open-source, with available Pro licensed
version.
GUI: It has a modern powerful graphical interface.
Multi-vendor support: Devices of several vendors can
be emulated.
Pros: User-friendly GUI, extensive device support.
Cons: Resource-intensive, limited free version.
Lacking: Efficient performance on low-spec
machines.
Conclusion :.
GUI Simulators:
GNS3, OMNeT++, Packet Tracer, QualNet, OPNET,
CORE, Eve-NG.
The GUI-less simulators:
NS-2, NS-3 and Mininet.
