A Simulation Framework for Cluster-based Web services

We propose a simulation framework, namely CWebSim, specifically designed for the performance evaluation and capacity planning of cluster-based Web services. A broad variety of Web cluster configurations can be simulated through CWebSim. Its modularity permits the definition of different mechanisms, algorithms, network topologies and hardware resources. Also, two workload input alternatives are possible: a trace-driven mode and a distribution-driven mode that encompasses the most recent results on Web workload characterization. We present two case studies to show how CWebSim can be used to test cache cooperation protocols and Web switch dispatching algorithms