# Deploying Secure Distributed Systems: Comparative Analysis of GNS3 and SEED Internet Emulator
## 6 Results and Evaluation
### Usability  
According to [PERSON] [76], software usability can be assessed by considering the following attributes:* **Learnability**: The system should be simple to understand, allowing users to start working immediately.
* **Efficiency**: The system should be efficient to use, enabling a high level of productivity once learned.
* **Memorability**: Users should be able to retain their knowledge of the system, allowing for easy re-use after a period of time.
* **Errors**: The system's error rate should be low, preventing users from encountering errors during usage.
* **Satisfaction**: The system should provide a pleasant experience for users and generate satisfaction during interactions.  
In the context of network emulation platforms, the usability of GNS3 and the SEED Internet Emulator differs in terms of their interface and intuitiveness. Both platforms can be run on Windows, Linux, and Mac OS, making them versatile options that cater to a wide range of user needs and preferences. Considering [PERSON]'s attributes, the following observations can be made:  
* **Learnability**: GNS3 is known for its ease of use and intuitive interface, making it suitable for professional training programs, such as Cisco certificates or university studies in network specialties. It features a graphical user interface that is simple and similar to Cisco Packet Tracer. On the other hand, the SEED Internet Emulator requires a deeper understanding of Linux system administration, including version control systems (e.g., Git), file permissions, Python programming, and Docker. However, once the initial setup is completed, the web client of the SEED Internet Emulator is straightforward and easy to navigate.
* **Efficiency**: The SEED Internet Emulator provides the opportunity for efficiency through a programmable environment, allowing for the automation of many tasks. This can be a requirement for adding more network nodes or changing communication protocols, which can be achieved through additional or different lines of code.
* **Memorability**: GNS3 presents a more-memorable platform for a casual user, in contrast to the SEED Internet Emulator, which is more relevant to an experienced IT professional [8].
* **Errors**: Challenges can arise when setting up and troubleshooting the GNS3 VM in a hypervisor environment. The software allows for a great amount of user accessibility, depending on how the user wants to configure it. The SEED Internet Emulator presents challenges around correct file permissions, programmable code, and issues with Docker. While most of the errors that can be encountered are trivial and can be mitigated easily, it does require a good knowledge of the Linux OS system administration [77].
* **Satisfaction**: In the short term, GNS3 can provide a more-pleasant experience for learners as it is presented in a GUI for all phases and is generally easy to use for all aspects, including design, development, and configuration [78]. The SEED Internet Emulator can initially be more difficult and complex as there is more system administration, programming, and understanding involved. However, this platform can provide enhanced satisfaction in the long term, as it has the ability to be used for a high variety of use-cases due to the nature of the platform using programming.  
However, these general usability considerations for users when choosing between GNS3 and the SEED Internet Emulator need to take into account their specific requirements and expertise level.