Virtual network simulator: changing the simulated computer network operations landscape for joint training and exercises

The United States Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) is a unified combatant command comprising all forces assigned to accomplish the commander's unified command plan (UCP)-assigned missions. USSTRATCOM exercises these command functions to protect and support Department of Defense (DoD) information systems and networks. Training and exercises must reflect real-world conditions and environments and extend across the full spectrum of operations. The virtual network simulator (VNS) is a realistic means to exercise fully computer network operation (CNO) effects and their impacts at all levels. VNS is a distributed simulation system designed to simulate information networks, information warfare (IW) attacks, and IW defenses. It serves as a powerful tool for training personnel in computer network defense (CND) and in recognizing computer network attacks (CNA), performing vulnerability analysis of existing or planned networks, and supporting training exercises. VNS has evolved from a standalone classroom trainer to the distributed simulation system. The paper details the keys to simulating CNO effects successfully with the VNS in support of joint exercises and training. It addresses the genesis and development of the VNS system. The paper discusses the major lessons learned and details the areas in which modeling and simulation must evolve.