A method for network analysis in an access network (1) in connection with a data transmission network, in particular an xDSL network, with a plurality of subscriber lines (4.1-4.3). The method comprising the step of collecting data on physical layer operational parameters ({φoi}) of at least one subscriber line (4.1-4.3) and the steps of simulating a behavior of higher network layers based on said collected data when deploying at least one application (6.1-6.3) on said subscriber line (4.1-4.3); generating data on higher layer performance parameters for said application (6.1-6.3); and generating an advice signal (AS) based on said data and indicative of the compatibility of the physical layer/application couple with predetermined Quality-of-Service (QoS) requirements for said application (6.1-6.3). Thus, the proposed method provides network operators with information concerning the question if a given service application (6.1-6.3) will run on a respective data transmission (core and access) network (1, 1′) in accordance with the QoS values recommended for said application (6.1-6.3), in particular a high-bandwidth rich media service type application, e.g. a triple-play service.