A New Network Topology Visualization Algorithm

This paper devotes into the technology of network topology visualization, introduces several current network topology visualization algorithms firstly. Then aimed to the display problem for large size network, puts forward a new network topology visualization algorithm which contains two policies: one is the layer model determined by network characters, another is the dynamic layout process by force-directed. After the analysis of algorithm efficiency, we implement it in our visualization tool. In our experiment, it can effectively and clearly display moderate computer network topology. We also design a valid route visualization finding method based on this displayed network topology.

I. Introduction

Network topology which reflects the basic structure of network is one of the most important factors in network management. Although network topology is composed of nodes and links, it is hardly to draw network topology graph in fact. The reason is that many networks we meet are very tremendous and complex. Take the Internet for example, Internet topology has thousands upon thousands routers as nodes, a large number of different kinds of cables as links. With the development of computer and network technology, Internet has become the most tremendous artificial network.