Network Simulator version 2, more popularly known as ns-2, is an open source event driven network simulator. With ns-2 one can simulate a wide range of network environments in wired, wireless or even in mixed mode. Major networking standards, including Ethernet, WLAN, satellite networks, Bluetooth, and so on, are supported by ns-2.
Overview:
ns-2 is written in C++ and OTcl. An overview of its architecture can be found in NS by Example. To simulate a problem one has to write a TCL script, which is executed by the ns interpreter. After successful execution, a trace file is obtained, which can be processed to evaluate different network parameters.
Installation:
ns-2 can be installed both on Linux or Windows. However, for Windows you would be required to install Cygwin first. Details about installation can be found in The Network Simulator: Building Ns.
Useful links:
- The official website of ns-2
- ns-2 wiki
- ns tutorial by Marc Greis -- the first tutorial about ns-2 one should usually read
- A list of possible problems faced while installing ns-2, and their solutions
