Simulate multiple IP addresses for testing

Question

I need to simulate multiple embedded server devices that are typically used for motor control. In real life, there can be multiple servers on the network and our desktop so

Answer 1

Normally you just listen on 0.0.0.0. This is an alias for all IP addresses.

Answer 2

You should set up a virtual network adapter. They are called TAP/TUN devices. If you are using windows, you can easily setup some dummy addresses with somthing like this:

http://www.ntkernel.com/w&p.php?id=32

Good luck!

Answer 3

A. consider using Bonjour (zeroconf) for service discovery

B. You can assign 1 or more IP addresses the same NIC:

On XP, Start -> Control Panel -> Network Connections and select properties on your NIC (usually 'Local Area Connection').

Scroll down to Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), select it and click on [Properties].

If you are using DHCP, you will need to get a static, base IP, from your IT. Otherwise, click on [Advanced] and under 'IP Addresses' click [Add..] Enter the IP information for the additional IP you want to add.

Repeat for each additional IP address.

C. Consider using VMWare, as you can configure multiple systems and virtual IPs within a single, logical, network of "computers".

-- sky