A method and apparatus is provided for network node emulation, including a node emulator, comprising a node interface, a memory, and a CPU. A method of generating an emulated network node includes the steps of generating an emulation script using a network node emulation language and operating a computer device according to the emulation script in order to transmit and receive data packets in the computer device. The method comprises receiving an incoming message, transmitting an outgoing message, and recognizing a response requirement in the incoming message. The method comprises responding to the incoming message by transmitting a response outgoing message if the incoming message includes a response requirement.