NETWORK MANAGER PROVIDING ADVANCED INTERCONNECTION CAPABILITY

A network manager for configuring and controlling a simulated telecommunications network having a plurality of nodes which communicate in a plurality of communications protocols. The network manager dynamically connects and disconnects each of the plurality of nodes to the network. The network manager also determines which of the plurality of communications protocols is utilized by each of the plurality of nodes, establishes connections between nodes which communicate in compatible communications protocols, and denies connections requested between nodes which communicate in incompatible communications protocols. The network manager includes a Design function and a Supervisory function. The Design function sets up the network, defines nodes, defines which nodes are to operate on which workstations, and establishes connections. The Supervisory function manages and operates the network. This includes launching the network, monitoring the nodes and links, and reconfiguring the network when requested. The Supervisory function initiates each node, dynamically takes nodes down and brings them back up again, severs links and reinstates them, and provides an operator with status information for each node and each link in the network. A Graphical User Interface is provided for operator interaction with the network manager.