Net2Plan: An open-source multilayer network planning tool and in-operation simulator (Demo paper)

Abstract

In this paper we describe the main features of the open-source Net2Plan tool. Built on top of a technology-agnostic vendor-neutral multilayer network representation, Net2Plan is designed to assist users in the evaluation of built-in or original user-developed planning algorithms. In addition, users can analyze their designs using either reports or a simulation tool for in-operation scenarios like network resilience, connection-admission-control, time-varying traffic resource allocation, or even combinations of them, using built-in or custom event generators or reaction algorithms. We motivate how a paradigm shift to an open-source view of network planning emphasizes the power of distributed peer-review, collaboration cycles and transparency to create high-quality software at an accelerated pace and lower cost.