Portable networking laboratory

This paper describes a portable networking laboratory composed of PC-based servers and Layer 2/3 switches. The laboratory is self-contained and mounted in a portable rack to facilitate network demonstrations and hands-on learning in most classrooms. The portable laboratory is a cost-effective solution to providing access to network equipment for hands-on experience with networking protocols in an isolated environment. Supporting system software includes Linux and FreeBSD. Applications software includes Extreme Network´s EPICenter network management software. We provide details on the hardware configuration and network topology. Examples of laboratory exercises or experiments using the portable lab are described The portable labs are used to reinforce concepts presented in a variety of networking courses, from the introductory course that teaches network fundamentals to the capstone course in network management.