NetSimulyzer

Abstract

The increased complexity of network protocols and scenarios simulated using ns-3 is making the verification of simulation correctness and the analysis of simulation outputs a challenging task. In this paper, we present a new and flexible visualization tool for ns-3, called NetSimulyzer, that can alleviate the workload of debugging, understanding, and demonstrating a scenario. The tool was conceived to easily integrate to any ns-3 scenario and provides core functionalities that are technology agnostic. NetSimulyzer provides mechanisms to track a variety of simulation elements, from topology and node mobility, to statistics and other data generated by the simulated network protocols. The collected information can be visualized using a 3D scene augmented with data visualization elements such as charts and logs. In this paper, we provide an overview of the architecture and functionalities of the tool, and we also illustrate its usability and versatility by visualizing scenarios provided in the standard ns-3 distribution.