GSoC March Generally Successful owing-to Communication: ns-3 Experiences with GSoC Craig Dowell University of Washington Google SoC Infosession March 5, 2009

GSoC March Outline A quick overview of ns-3 Our Experiences with GSoC –Our Process –Lessons Learned

GSoC March What is ns-3? Open-Source Discrete-Event Network Simulator Allows Simulation of Internet Systems Integration with Testbeds and Virtual Machines

GSoC March What is ns-3? A Simulated ns-3 Node is a bare computer to which simulated applications, stacks, and NICs are added Application

GSoC March What is ns-3? Ns-3 Simulates Complex Network Topologies in Software

GSoC March What is ns-3? Ns-3 Connects “Real” Software Through Simulated Networks virtual machine ns-3 virtual machine real machine

GSoC March Example: Emulab University of Utah Emulab Testbed

GSoC March What is ns-3? Ns-3 Connects Simulated Protocol Stacks Through Real Networks real machine ns-3 Testbed real machine ns-3

GSoC March Example: ORBIT Rutgers WINLAB ORBIT Radio Grid

GSoC March The ns-3 GSoC Process Limited Number of Slots More Applicants than Slots (>10:1) We have suggestions, and accept new ideas Rank Initial Application –People who knew ns-3 basics ranked higher; –People who had clearly thought about the problem ranked higher; –Don’t just parrot the idea back; –Show us quickly why you are “the one.”

GSoC March The ns-3 GSoC Process IRC “Interviews” –Probe knowledge of C++, networking, past projects –Chat about proposed project Have you thought about the project at any level of detail? Do you have a reasonable scope of work in mind? Do you have a reasonable approach? How serious are you about this work? Does this work really interest you? Agreement on Scope and Schedule Chat Chat Chat! Communicate Communicate Communicate! Code code code.

GSoC March Lessons Learned Students had a problem creating and adhering to a schedule! Students need to understand this is a real full-time job –You have to interview; –You have to get hired; –You have to work full time; –You have to produce something; –You have to produce it on time; –You have to make something that does what you said it would; –You have to communicate with the rest of your team.

GSoC March Lessons Learned Communication is absolutely critical. –Direct correlation between levels of communication and success –The students that spent the most time on IRC with us had the best outcomes. –We will heavily use IRC, Skype, etc. –Need at least weekly coordination chats with mentors –Daily chats if difficulties arise. Time is tight (10 weeks) so adherence to a real schedule is critical.

GSoC March Lessons Learned If a GSoc project is taken lightly it is a waste of time for everyone involved. With reasonable effort –Students can do very good work. –Students can make important contributions to the project –Everybody can benefit –Everybody can learn

GSoC March ns-3 and GSoC Short Q & A