What are the best ways to test MPLS network design and planning?

1 Simulation Tools

Simulation tools are software applications that can model the behavior and performance of MPLS networks, based on various parameters and scenarios. Simulation tools can help you test your MPLS network design and planning by allowing you to create virtual network environments, configure different MPLS features and options, and analyze the results of different network events and traffic patterns. Simulation tools can also help you compare different MPLS network design and planning alternatives, and identify potential issues and bottlenecks. Some examples of simulation tools for MPLS network design and planning are OPNET, NS2, NS3, and OMNeT++.

2 Emulation Tools

Emulation tools are hardware devices or software applications that can mimic the functionality and behavior of MPLS networks, by using real network equipment or protocols. Emulation tools can help you test your MPLS network design and planning by allowing you to connect your actual network devices, such as routers and switches, to a simulated or virtual network environment, and run real MPLS traffic and commands. Emulation tools can also help you test your MPLS network design and planning by allowing you to inject faults, errors, or failures into the network, and observe how the network reacts and recovers. Some examples of emulation tools for MPLS network design and planning are GNS3, EVE-NG, and Cisco VIRL.

3 Lab Testing

Lab testing is the process of setting up a physical or virtual network environment that replicates the conditions and characteristics of your intended MPLS network deployment, and conducting various tests and experiments on it. Lab testing can help you test your MPLS network design and planning by allowing you to verify the functionality, performance, security, and scalability of your MPLS network solution, using real network devices, protocols, and traffic. Lab testing can also help you test your MPLS network design and planning by allowing you to validate the interoperability, compatibility, and compliance of your MPLS network solution with other network technologies, standards, and vendors. Lab testing requires access to sufficient network resources, equipment, and tools, as well as expertise and time.

4 Field Testing

Field testing is the process of deploying your MPLS network solution in a limited or controlled segment of your actual network environment, and monitoring and evaluating its performance and behavior. Field testing can help you test your MPLS network design and planning by allowing you to assess the impact and benefits of your MPLS network solution on your real network operations, services, and customers. Field testing can also help you test your MPLS network design and planning by allowing you to identify and resolve any issues, errors, or gaps that may arise during the implementation and transition of your MPLS network solution. Field testing requires careful planning, coordination, and execution, as well as backup and contingency plans.

5 Network Monitoring and Analysis Tools

Network monitoring and analysis tools are software applications or hardware devices that can collect, measure, and display various network metrics and parameters, such as traffic volume, latency, jitter, packet loss, bandwidth utilization, and quality of service. Network monitoring and analysis tools can help you test your MPLS network design and planning by allowing you to track and evaluate the performance and behavior of your MPLS network solution, both during and after the testing phases. Network monitoring and analysis tools can also help you test your MPLS network design and planning by allowing you to troubleshoot and optimize your MPLS network solution, based on the data and insights they provide. Some examples of network monitoring and analysis tools for MPLS network design and planning are Wireshark, PRTG, SolarWinds, and NetFlow.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?