RINSE: The Real-Time Immersive Network Simulation Environment for Network Security Exercises (Extended Version)

Abstract

The Real-Time Immersive Network Simulation Environment (RINSE) simulator is being developed to support large-scale network security preparedness and training exercises, involving hundreds of players and a modeled network composed of hundreds of local-area networks (LANs). The simulator must be able to present a realistic rendering of network behavior as attacks are launched and players diagnose events and try counter measures to keep network services operating. The authors describe the architecture and function of RINSE and outline how techniques such as multiresolution traffic modeling, multiresolution attack models, and new routing simulation methods are used to address the scalability challenges of this application. They also describe in more detail new work on CPU/memory models necessary for the exercise scenarios and a latency absorption technique that will help when extending the range of client tools usable by the players.