LENS

A lightweight hybrid framework that bridges emulation (Docker containers) and simulation (ns-3).

Built as an extension on top of ns-3.45.

Although the usage is similar to tap-bridge, the internal architecture and implementation are fully rewritten.

Project Scope

LENS is designed to connect real container-side protocol stacks with ns-3 network simulation, which is useful for:

• Joint debugging between real applications and controlled network models.
• Reproducible hybrid experiments while keeping container-based deployment.
• Experiments that require explicit control over scheduling, timing, and link behavior.

Repository Layout

• contrib/tap-bridgev2/: core extension module.
• contrib/tap-bridgev2/model/: bridge logic, schedulers, timing control, and related implementations.
• contrib/tap-bridgev2/examples/: example programs and virtual networking scripts.

Usage

1. Download ns-3.45.
2. Copy contrib/tap-bridgev2 from this repository into the contrib/ directory of ns-3.
3. Create a Python virtual environment and install dependencies:

python3 -m venv .venv
source .venv/bin/activate
pip install -r requirements.txt

4. Build the ns-3 project from its root directory.

Notes

• LENS follows a tap-bridge-like workflow, but its internal design and behavior are reimplemented.
• Start with the content in contrib/tap-bridgev2/examples/ to verify your setup quickly.
• The core code will be open-sourced after the paper is accepted.