Network Uptime

* Traffic generation can add a lot of additonal traffic to an existing network segment. Some applications or stations may have problems when large bursts of traffic are present, and the traffic generator can simulate these large traffic patterns and put the test application server through the ringer.

* Networking hardware is usually evaluated on throughput; the faster the packets move, the better the box. The packet generator can send thousands of frames through a device, and another analyzer can capture the data on the other side. If 1,000 frames are sent, then 1,000 frames should be received!

* When troubleshooting a network, the captured data tells the story. Sometimes, the story isn't the same plot line repeated over and over in every chapter. Instead, the evil villain jumps out in the middle of the book and the rest of the novel describes how the rest of the world is dealing with the shambled pieces of their lives. Stay with me, I'm going somewhere with this.

Most traffic generation functions allow you to replay a trace file while re-capturing the file simultaneously. Think of this capability as TiVo for your network analyzer (http://www.TiVo.com). In the replay, you can freeze-frame the evil villain, and watch the details of his tortuous plan for world domination occur in slow motion. You can even pause the traffic generation in mid-packet if the phone rings.

When replaying the trace, it's sometimes helpful to watch the network fall to pieces in 'real time.' The network outage may be sudden and apparent, or the problem may slowly occur over time. This replay option provides some perspective that may not otherwise be visible in a static protocol decode.

There are numerous other uses for a traffic generator, but these should get you started. Remember that traffic generation can add unnecessary and unwanted data to your network! Use extra care when operating a traffic generator, and take precautions against network outages!