Introduction¶
What is INET Framework¶
The INET Framework is an open-source model library for the OMNeT++ simulation environment. Protocols, agents, and other models are provided for researchers and students working with communication networks. INET is especially useful for designing and validating new protocols or exploring new or exotic scenarios.
A wide class of communication networks are supported by INET, including wired, wireless, mobile, ad hoc, and sensor networks. Models for the Internet stack (TCP, UDP, IPv4, IPv6, OSPF, BGP, etc.), link layer protocols (Ethernet, PPP, IEEE 802.11, various sensor MAC protocols, etc.), refined support for the wireless physical layer, MANET routing protocols, DiffServ, MPLS with LDP and RSVP-TE signaling, several application models, and many other protocols and components are included. Support is also provided for node mobility, advanced visualization, network emulation, and more.
INET serves as a base for several other simulation frameworks which extend it into specific directions, such as vehicular networks, overlay/peer-to-peer networks, or LTE.
Designed for Experimentation¶
INET is built around the concept of modules that communicate through message passing. Components represent agents and network protocols, which can be freely combined to form hosts, routers, switches, and other networking devices. Users can program new components, and existing components are designed to be easy to understand and modify.
INET benefits from the infrastructure provided by OMNeT++. In addition to making use of the services provided by the OMNeT++ simulation kernel and library (component model, parameterization, result recording, etc.), models can be developed, assembled, parameterized, run, and their results evaluated from the comfort of the OMNeT++ Simulation IDE or from the command line.
INET Framework is maintained by the OMNeT++ team for the community, utilizing patches and new models contributed by members of the community.
Scope of this Manual¶
This manual is written for users who are interested in assembling simulations using the components provided by the INET Framework. (In contrast, if one is interested in modifying INET’s components or plans to extend INET with new protocols or other components using C++, the INET Developers Guide is recommended.)
This manual does not attempt to be a reference for INET. It focuses on conveying the big picture and does not attempt to cover all components or try to document the parameters, gates, statistics, or precise operation of individual components. For such information, users should refer to the INET Reference, a web-based cross-referenced documentation generated from NED and MSG files.
A working knowledge of OMNeT++ is assumed.