Virtual IP network practice system with software agent

Abstract

It is important for beginning network engineering students to frequently practice setting up fundamental IP networks according to predetermined procedures. We have been developing NetPowerLab, a hands-on IP network practice system that uses virtual machines to provide an IP network learning environment. In this paper, we report the new development of IP network practice system with software agents. Software agents operate as a teacher or a cooperative student. The new system has three mode. The tutorial mode is used by beginner students with software agent operating as teacher. The practice mode is used by intermediate students with software agent operating as intermediate cooperative student. The troubleshooting mode is used by advanced students with software agent operating as advanced cooperative student. We describe outline of the system and software agent for IP network practice in this paper.