CISCO vs Other Networking Tools: A Comprehensive Study on Current Network Simulators and Categorizing Them Based on Their Performances

David Ehigbochie; Edirin L. Omoze

doi:10.5455/JCSI.20240523125542

Abstract
Abstract-Choosing the right simulator for a network project is a crucial aspect that cannot be ignored. Many network practitioners have faced the consequences of choosing an inadequate and low-performance simulator, leading to project failures and abandonment. Various studies have been conducted to compare different network simulators, but unfortunately, the importance of Cisco specialized network simulators has been overlooked. Cisco specialised network simulators play a significant role in the simulation of networks, and it is essential to include them in any comparative study. Therefore, the objective of this study is to compare relevant simulators with Cisco specialized simulators, using an evaluation method that considers eight key performance indicators, including scalability, ease to code, compatibility, license, graphical user interface support, routing protocol, pros and cons. The results of this study indicate that Cisco specialised simulators are an excellent choice for enhancing the performance and outcomes of network simulators. Therefore, it is highly recommended that network practitioners and researchers consider Cisco network simulators when comparing simulators for their projects to ensure optimal results.

Key words: Cisco, Simulation Tools; Comparison; Performance Evaluation; Network Simulator