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This project demonstrates the design, simulation, and configuration of computer networks using Cisco Packet Tracer. It focuses on integrating multiple topologies, implementing network protocols, and showcasing practical networking concepts.
HYBRID NETWORK CONFIGURATION PROJECT
Course: CPMG 325 – Computer Networks (2025) Tool Used: Cisco Packet Tracer Author: SJN NDLOVU
PROJECT OVERVIEW
This project focuses on designing and configuring a Hybrid Network Topology that integrates multiple network designs — Bus, Mesh, Star, Ring, and Extended Star — into a single interconnected structure. It supports both IPv4 and IPv6 addressing, includes VLAN segmentation, a DHCP server, and implements basic network security.
OBJECTIVE
To design, configure, and document a hybrid network topology that demonstrates real-world networking concepts, including:
- Integration of multiple topology types
- Dual-stack (IPv4 & IPv6) configuration
- VLAN segmentation
- DHCP server implementation
- Basic switch-level security (DHCP Snooping)
NETWORK TOPOLOGY SUMMARY
Segment | Topology | VLAN | Purpose | IP Subnet | IPv6 Prefix
Pink | Bus + Ring | VLAN 10 | Admin (CoreOps) | 192.168.10.0/24 | 2001:A::/64 Cyan | Star | VLAN 20 | IT (DevLab) | 192.168.20.0/24 | 2001:B::/64 Red | Mesh | VLAN 30 | HR (Client Hub) | 192.168.30.0/24 | 2001:C::/64 Orange | Ext. Star | VLAN 50 | Server (DHCP) | 192.168.50.0/24 | 2001:50::/64
DEVICE CONFIGURATION SUMMARY
Router (Cisco 2911)
- Acts as DHCP Server and gateway
- IPv4 and IPv6 enabled
DHCP Example: Router(config)# ip dhcp pool VLAN10 Router(dhcp-config)# network 192.168.10.0 255.255.255.0 Router(dhcp-config)# default-router 192.168.10.1 Router(dhcp-config)# dns-server 192.168.50.2 Router(dhcp-config)# exit
Switches
- VLANs created and assigned to ports
- Trunks configured for inter-switch links
- PortFast enabled
End Devices
- DHCP enabled for IPv4
- IPv6 assigned manually
SECURITY CONFIGURATION
DHCP Snooping enabled to prevent rogue DHCP servers.
Switch(config)# ip dhcp snooping Switch(config)# ip dhcp snooping vlan 10,20,30 Switch(config)# interface fastEthernet0/1 Switch(config-if)# ip dhcp snooping trust
VERIFICATION & TESTING
- Ping tests for VLANs and inter-VLAN communication
- Traceroute to verify routing
- DHCP test confirmed dynamic IP allocation
- IPv6 manual addressing verified
- Security test confirmed DHCP Snooping works
INDIVIDUAL TOPOLOGIES
- Bus & Ring (Pink) - Combined linear and loop network
- Star (Cyan) - Central switch connection
- Mesh (Red) - Redundant links, fault tolerance
- Extended Star (Orange) - Hierarchical switch layout
CONCLUSION
This hybrid network design demonstrates multiple topology integrations, dual IP versioning, VLANs, DHCP, and security. All components were tested and verified for performance, scalability, and reliability.
AUTHOR Sengezo Jenny Ndlovu Final Year BSc Computer Science and Electronics Student Passionate about networking, cybersecurity, and system design.