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EXPERIMENT – 1

AIM: Introduction to computer networks

Question: What are computer networks?

Answer:
A computer network is a collection of interconnected computers and devices that are
capable of sharing data and resources. These networks can be wired (using cables and
physical connections) or wireless (using radio waves or other wireless technologies). The
primary purpose of computer networks is to facilitate communication and data exchange
between devices, allowing them to share
information, access the internet, share files and resources (such as printers or storage),
and collaborate effectively.

Here's a simple table outlining the key components and types of computer networks:

Component Description

The individual devices connected to the

Nodes (Computers/Devices) network, such as computers, smartphones,
servers, and printers.

The physical or logical connections that

Links (Connections) enable data transfer, including Ethernet
cables, Wi-Fi, or fiber optics.

Sets of rules and conventions that govern

communication between devices on the
Protocols
network, such as TCP/IP (used for the
internet) or HTTP (used for web browsing).

The arrangement or layout of network devices

Topology and connections, including star, bus, ring, and
mesh topologies.

Various types of networks, including LAN

(Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area
Types of Networks
Network), MAN (Metropolitan Area Network),
and PAN (Personal Area Network).

Question: What is a system?

Answer:
A system is a collection of interrelated components or elements that work together to
achieve a common goal or purpose. Systems can vary in complexity and can be
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found in various domains, including engineering, biology, sociology, and computerscience.

In the context of computer science and software engineering, a system typically refers to a
combination of hardware, software, data, and processes designed to perform specific
functions or tasks.

Here's a table summarizing the key components of a system:

Component Description

Data, signals, or information that the system

Inputs
receives from its environment.

The actions, algorithms, or operations

Processes performed on inputs to produce desired
outputs.

The results, responses, or outcomes generated

Outputs by the system and provided to itsenvironment.

Information or signals that help the system

Feedback
adjust or adapt to changing conditions.

Mechanisms or components responsible for

Control
managing and regulating system behavior.

Question: What is a simulator?

Answer:
A simulator is a software or hardware tool designed to mimic the behavior of a real- world
system, process, or environment. Simulators are used for various purposes,
including training, testing, experimentation, and analysis. They allow users to interact with a
simulated version of a system without the risks or costs associated with the real thing.
Simulators are commonly used in fields such as aviation, automotive engineering, and
computer science.

Question: What is an emulator?

Answer:
An emulator is similar to a simulator but typically focuses on replicating the hardware and
software environment of a specific system or device, such as a gaming console, mobile
phone, or computer. Emulators are often used for running software or applications designed
for one platform on another, allowing compatibilitybetween different systems. For example,
an Android emulator can run Android apps on a Windows computer.
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Question: What is the difference between continuous and discrete systems?

Answer:
Continuous and discrete systems are two fundamental types of systems in various fields,
including engineering and computer science. Here's a comparison:

Characteristic Continuous System Discrete System

Time Continuous, operates over a Discrete, operates at specific

Representation continuous range of time. time instants.

Represented by continuous functions Represented by discrete

State Variables
(e.g., differential equations). values (e.g., integers).

Analog electronic circuits, fluid Digital electronic circuits,

Examples
dynamics. computer programs.

In a continuous system, time and state variables are continuous, meaning they can take any
value within a range. In contrast, discrete systems operate at specific discrete time steps,
and state variables are represented by discrete values.

Question: What is discrete event simulation?

Answer:

Discrete event simulation is a modeling and simulation technique used to study the behavior
of complex systems that evolve over time based on discrete events. It involves modeling the
system's components, events, and interactions and then simulating their behavior over
discrete time intervals. This approach is particularly useful for systems where significant
changes occur only at specific points in time, such as queuing systems, manufacturing
processes, and computer networks.

Key components of discrete event simulation include:

Entities: Represent objects or elements within the system that can move through
various states or processes.

Events: Occurrences that trigger changes in the system's state or the entities'behavior.

Queues: Used to manage entities awaiting processing or service.

Simulation clock: Keeps track of the current simulation time.

Discrete event simulation is employed in various domains for performance analysis,

optimization, and decision-making.
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Question: What are the various types of simulators available?

Answer:
Simulators come in various types, depending on their applications and purposes. Here are
some common types of simulators:

Type Description

Simulate aircraft behavior and are used forpilot

Flight Simulators
training and aircraft design/testing.

Mimic the operation of vehicles and are used for

Driving Simulators
driver training, testing, and research.

Replicate medical procedures and scenarios for

Medical Simulators
training healthcare professionals.

Emulate computer networks to test and analyze

Network Simulators
network protocols and configurations.

Provide immersive gaming experiences by

Gaming Simulators
simulating virtual worlds and environments.

Model manufacturing processes and

Industrial Simulators industrial systems for training and
optimization.

Simulate space environments and missions for

Space Simulators
astronaut training and mission planning.

The choice of simulator type depends on the specific application and goals.

Question: Explain at least seven networking simulators.

Answer:
Here are seven popular networking simulators, along with a brief description of each:

1. NS-2 (Network Simulator 2):

NS-2 is an open-source discrete event simulator primarily used for network

protocol research and development.

It supports various network types, including wired and wireless networks.

Written in C++ and TCL, it allows users to design and evaluate network protocols
and scenarios.

2. NS-3 (Network Simulator 3):

NS-3 is the successor to NS-2 and provides a more modern and extensibleplatform
for network simulation.
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It is also open-source and supports various network technologies, including Wi-Fi,

LTE, and IPv6.

NS-3 is written in C++ and offers a Python binding for scripting.

3. Cisco Packet Tracer:

Packet Tracer is a network simulation tool developed by Cisco Systems.

It is widely used for teaching and learning networking concepts, especially inCisco's
networking courses.

Packet Tracer allows users to create and simulate network topologies.

4. GNS3 (Graphical Network Simulator-3):

GNS3 is an open-source network emulator used for designing and testing

complex network topologies.
It integrates with real network devices, such as routers and switches, making it
valuable for network engineers.

5. EVE-NG (Emulated Virtual Environment - Next Generation):

EVE-NG is a network emulation platform that allows users to emulate a wide range
of network devices, including Cisco, Juniper, and more.

It is commonly used for network certification exam preparation and lab

testing.

6. OpNet (now part of Riverbed Steel Central):

OpNet is a commercial network modeling and simulation tool used for

performance analysis and capacity planning.

It offers features for simulating various network technologies and predicting network
behavior.

7. OMNeT++:

OMNeT++ is a discrete event simulation framework used for modeling and

simulating communication systems and protocols.

It is extensible and suitable for research in wireless and mobile networks.

These simulators cater to different needs, from research and education to network design
and testing.
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Question: What is the difference between NS-2 and NS-3?

Answer:
NS-2 and NS-3 are both network simulators, but they have notable differences:

Characteristic NS-2 NS-3

Primarily C++ with Python scripting

Language C++ and TCL scripting language.
support.

Older architecture, harder to Modern, modular architecture for easy

Architecture
extend. extension.

Wireless Support Limited wireless support. Extensive wireless model library.

IPv6 Support Limited or requires extensions. Native IPv6 support.

Open Source Yes Yes

Current Development largely ceased (as of

Actively maintained and developed.
Development cutoff date).

NS-3 is generally considered a more advanced and versatile network simulator, especially
for wireless and modern network protocols. Researchers and developers often prefer NS-3
due to its active development community and better support for contemporary networking
technologies.

Question: Explain in detail with all the available functionality about Packet Tracer
and Wireshark.

Answer:

Packet Tracer:

Description: Cisco Packet Tracer is a network simulation and visualization tool

developed by Cisco Systems. It is primarily used for teaching and learning networking
concepts, especially in Cisco's networking courses.

Key Features:

Network Topology Simulation: Users can create, configure, and simulatenetwork

topologies, including routers, switches, PCs, and other networkingdevices.

Packet Simulation: Packet Tracer allows users to generate and track network
packets, making it a valuable tool for understanding how data flows within a
network.

Device Configuration: Users can configure devices using a command-line

interface (CLI) like Cisco's real networking devices.

Packet Capture: Packet Tracer provides basic packet capture and analysis
capabilities, allowing users to inspect network traffic.
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Protocols Supported: It supports a range of network protocols, including

TCP/IP, DHCP, HTTP, and more.

Collaboration: Packet Tracer offers collaboration features, enabling multiple users to

work on the same network project simultaneously.

IoT Simulation: It includes support for simulating Internet of Things (IoT)devices

and scenarios.

Wireshark:

Description: Wireshark, formerly known as Ethereal, is a powerful open-source packet

analysis tool used for network troubleshooting, analysis, and protocol development.

Key Features:

Packet Capture: Wireshark can capture and display packets from a network
interface in real-time.

Protocol Analysis: It provides detailed protocol analysis, allowing users todissect and
analyze network traffic at a granular level.

Filtering and Searching: Users can apply filters and search for specific packets or
packet attributes, making it easy to isolate and examine relevantdata.

Packet Decoding: Wireshark can decode various network protocols, making it an

invaluable tool for diagnosing network issues.

Statistics: It offers statistics and summary information about captured packets,

such as protocol distribution and bandwidth usage.

Export and Save: Users can save captured packets in various file formats or
export them for further analysis.

Scripting and Automation: Wireshark supports scripting and automation through

tools like TShark and Lua.

Cross-Platform: Available on multiple operating systems, including

Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Both Packet Tracer and Wireshark serve important roles in networking, with Packet Tracer
focusing on network simulation and learning, while Wireshark excels in packet analysis and
troubleshooting.