Flexible distributed testbed for high performance network evaluation

This paper describes a flexible testbed using a combination of managed switches and rack-mounted personal computers, controlled from a central server distribution point. The arrangements allows for the rapid and automated configuration of various network scenarios. In addition, the use of IP tunnelling allows testbed islands to be interconnected in support of larger distributed arrangements. After describing the architecture, the paper discusses a number of topical example scenarios to demonstrate the utility of the equipment.