Exploring the capabilities of emulators and training testbeds for deploying named data networks

This paper discusses Named Data Networking (NDN), where addressing occurs by packet name. For these networks, there is a problem of finding software for developing training stands, primarily with the ability to study their features — aggregation and caching. It is shown that in this issue it is preferable not to rely on ready-made software, but to learn on test examples, and then deploy your training stand based on a virtual laboratory or single-board computers. The article provides a comparative table of methods for deploying experiments in NDN, and also provides basic commands for mastering work with NDN networks and utilities for them. The capabilities of working with a network based on PNetLab or Eve-NG software have proven themselves from the best side, since it is convenient to study large topologies in virtual laboratories, but there are also alternatives to take into account the requirements and capabilities of the developer. Thus, the most lightweight in terms of CPU and RAM resources is to build a stand using Mini-NDN software, and in terms of the clarity of the experimental results, the capabilities of single-board computers or virtual machines in the hypervisor network are well suited. With this option, NDN traffic is easier to examine with standard packet analyzers. This work can be useful for network engineers who already widely use digital twins of real computer networks, as well as for novice researchers in this field.