Laboratory Experiment

Experiment 1: Network Topologies

Objective:
Understand different network topologies.

Materials:

• • Cisco Packet Tracer (optional download)

• • Browser

• • Worksheet

Procedure:

1. 1. Open the simulation.

1. 1. Build a star topology.

1. 1. Connect five computers.

1. 1. Test communication.

1. 1. Record observations.

Expected Outcome:
Students identify the strengths and weaknesses of star, bus, ring, and mesh topologies.

Experiment 2: IP Address Configuration

Students learn to:

• • Assign IP addresses.

• • Configure subnet masks.

• • Set default gateways.

• • Test communication using the ping command.

Experiment 3: Router Configuration

Students learn to:

• • Configure router interfaces.

• • Assign IP addresses.

• • Save configurations.

• • Verify connectivity.

Experiment 4: Switch Configuration

Students learn to:

• • Configure switch ports.

• • Assign VLANs.

• • Verify communication between devices.

Experiment 5: Network Troubleshooting

Students identify and fix common issues such as:

• • Incorrect IP addresses

• • Faulty cables

• • Wrong subnet masks

• • Missing gateways

• Router interface errors