CS432 Assignment 1 Solution Fall 2026

This assignment focuses on the practical application of network modeling and simulation using the OMNeT++ tool. Students will explore scenarios involving university network planning, performance analysis, and video streaming optimization. The tasks require explaining theoretical concepts, identifying simulation components, and understanding the role of variables and functions in network simulations. You must produce written responses addressing these network engineering scenarios.

1. 1

   Question 1

   3 marks

   Explain the role of network modelling and simulation within the context of a university network setup. Additionally, identify two specific benefits of testing a network through simulation prior to its physical deployment.

2. 2

   Question 2

   3 marks

   Differentiate between analytical modelling and simulation-based modelling techniques. Provide one specific example of each method based on the provided scenario of a network engineer calculating performance.

3. 3

   Question 3

   3 marks

   Define the network topology for a simulation involving four computers connected to a router. Identify two primary components of an OMNeT++ model and state one performance metric that can be measured in this setup.

4. 4

   Question 4

   3 marks

   Describe how to observe packet movement within OMNeT++. Explain the potential impact of increasing bandwidth on network performance and discuss the effect of packet loss on video streaming services.

5. 5

   Question 5

   3 marks

   Explain the purpose of using a counter variable and a function to control message sending in a TicToc simulation. Additionally, state one inherent limitation of network simulation.

What to submit

One MS Word document (.doc or .docx).

Topics covered

Network modeling OMNeT++ Network topology Performance metrics Analytical modeling Simulation variables Packet movement