The Goals and Benefits of Network Modelling in a Commercial Environment

Modelling is a technique that can be used in the development and sizing of networks. It involves building a mathematical representation of a physical system and is often computer based, allowing system behaviour to be investigated based on the variation of key parameters. This pa- per will describe some applicable tools for network modelling and consider a range of applications. Whilst modelling and simulation tools are used extensively to design and size ICT solutions, each tool tends to be targeted at a specific range of applications and a specific user community. It is shown that different tools expect different levels of expertise from their user communities. The benefits of using such tools are described, as are some of their limitations. Modelling and simulation provide a cheaper and faster approach to trying new ideas than building prototypes or test networks. They provide a valuable guide to designing networks and can predict operational outcomes.