A Virtual Network Laboratory for Instruction and Research

A client-server environment has been developed for testing performance of web applications. This article discusses extending its applicability to instruction and research as a virtual networking laboratory (VNL). The VNL operates in an Internet-connected LAN environment and can perform operations of arbitrary scope under control of remote users. A multi-layered abstraction model of the VNL is described, wherein the client-side test application performs functions related to remote-controlled testing and experimentation. The paper also elaborates on the development of a VNL for instructional purposes, and describes other possible uses in research and education.