Network Simulation By Mouse (NSBM): A GUI Approach for Teaching Computer Networks with the ns Simulator

The ns network simulator is a common tool frequently used for teaching the fundamentals of computer networks. However, our experience with students has shown that writing long ns scripts is not appreciated by them. Hence, we used a custom-made visualization tool — NSBM — where topologies are created using a mouse and then the TCL script is generated automatically. The tool is interactive and has an easy interface to create topologies and define agents and protocols that govern the communication setup. The feedback of students was relatively encouraging as the majority found it to be useful in learning networking fundamentals.