Rapid prototyping of cooperative caching in a VANET: A case study

Abstract

Due to the complex nature of mobile ad hoc networks, simulation is an important tool used to explore approaches and validate research. De facto simulation tools for networking research such as ns-3 are extremely powerful. However, the time to develop, execute, and analyze a meaningful simulation in these tools can be significant. In addition to the unavoidable learning curve associated with the tool itself, the developer must have significant coding skills and domain knowledge. Once development of the simulation is complete, the time required to execute the simulation can be significant. In this paper, we present a case study that focuses on the use of the Netlogo tool to explore the impact of certain parameters on a cooperative cache deployed within a vehicular network. The results of the Netlogo simulation are then compared to the results of a similar simulation developed in ns-3. Our work shows that meaningful results can be obtained using Netlogo with less investment of time at the expense of flexibility and realism when compared to ns-3. With this approach, if the results of the Netlogo based simulation look promising, a greater investment in a more powerful and accurate simulation using ns-3 can be made. Utilizing this process saves the developer time by focusing on those approaches that look promising.