Using the open network lab

Abstract

The Open Network Laboratory is a resource designed to enable experimental evaluation of advanced networking concepts in a realistic operating environment. The laboratory is built around a set of open-source, extensible, high performance routers, which can be accessed by remote users through a remote laboratory interface (RLI). The RLI allows users to configure the testbed network, run applications and monitor those running applications using built-in data gathering mechanisms. Support for data visualization and real-time remote display is provided. The RLI also allows users to extend, modify or replace the software running in the routers' embedded processors and to similarly extend, modify or replace the routers' packet processing hardware, which is implemented largely using field programmable gate arrays. The routers included in the testbed are architecturally similar to high performance commercial routers, enabling researchers to evaluate their ideas in a much more realistic context than can be provided by PC-based routers. The Open Network Laboratory is designed to provide a setting in which systems researchers can evaluate and refine their ideas and then demonstrate them to those interested in moving their technology into new products and services. This tutorial will teach users how to use the ONL. It will include detailed presentations on the system architecture and principles of operation, as well as live demonstrations. We also plan to give participants an opportunity for hands-on experience with setting up and running experiments themselves.