OnLine Test System, an application of passive testing in routing protocols test

In order to perform effective routing protocol testing, passive testing is introduced. The passive testing checks the protocol implementation through online observation. It can be performed in the production field without interfering with the network and possesses several other beneficial features. This test method was realized in an OnLine Test System (OLTS). Key techniques were worked out and the framework was designed. The OLTS exploits the state synchronization algorithm to test the protocol state machine. It tests the exchange and the manipulation of the routing information through topology analysis and internal process simulation. OLTS supports multiple instances to work in a distributed environment. It can also cooperate with an active test system to bring out the best in each other. The prototype of the OLTS has been implemented. The testing of BGP, OSPF and RIP has been performed.