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CN Lab Report

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Optimizing ISP Network Communication

Using Variable Length Subnet Masking

Abstract
This report investigates a connectivity issue within an ISP network where a host in Sub-
net 4 was unable to communicate with a host in Subnet 1. The network comprises four
subnets with varying IP requirements, connected by routers and switches. Through sys-
tematic analysis and reconfiguration of subnetting, routing tables, and network protocols,
the issue was resolved. The findings highlight the importance of proper network design
and configuration to ensure seamless data transmission between hosts in different subnets.

Problem Statement
The ISP network consists of four subnets connected through three routers and four
switches, with each subnet assigned a specific number of IPs. A connectivity issue was
reported by a host in Subnet 4, which could not send data to a host in Subnet 1. The
problem disrupted communication between critical parts of the network, affecting user
experience and service reliability. The issue involved misconfigured routing tables or
improper subnet design, leading to a lack of communication across the network.

Objective
The primary objective of this study is to:

1. Diagnose and resolve the connectivity issue between Subnet 4 and Subnet 1.

2. Design and validate an optimized subnetting structure for the ISP network.

3. Ensure seamless communication among all subnets with minimal resource utiliza-
tion.

Modern Tools Used


• Cisco Packet Tracer: Used for network design and simulation to validate config-
urations and test communication.

1
Methodology
Protocol Selection
Protocol Used: Static Routing Justification: Static routing is chosen due to its
simplicity, control, and efficiency. For the small-scale topology of 3 routers and 4 subnets,
static routes provide predictable and stable traffic flow without the overhead of dynamic
routing protocols. This method ensures minimal resource consumption and allows full
control over routing paths.

Network Architecture and Subnet Design


In the subnet planning process, IP addresses are allocated efficiently using Variable
Length Subnet Masking (VLSM) based on the required number of hosts for each subnet.

Step-by-Step Subnetting Process


1. Determine Number of Hosts Required per Subnet:

• Subnet 1: Requires 64 hosts.


• Subnet 2: Requires 32 hosts.
• Subnet 3: Requires 16 hosts.
• Subnet 4: Requires 8 hosts.

2. Calculate Subnet Masks:

• Subnet 1 (64 hosts): /26 (255.255.255.192)


• Subnet 2 (32 hosts): /27 (255.255.255.224)
• Subnet 3 (16 hosts): /28 (255.255.255.240)
• Subnet 4 (8 hosts): /29 (255.255.255.248)

3. Allocate Network Address Ranges:

Subnet Subnet Mask Network Address Broadcast Address Usable IP Ra


Subnet 1 255.255.255.192 (/26) 192.168.0.0 192.168.0.63 192.168.0.1 - 192.1
Subnet 2 255.255.255.224 (/27) 192.168.0.64 192.168.0.95 192.168.0.65 - 192.
Subnet 3 255.255.255.240 (/28) 192.168.0.96 192.168.0.111 192.168.0.97 - 192.1
Subnet 4 255.255.255.248 (/29) 192.168.0.112 192.168.0.119 192.168.0.113 - 192.

IP Address Assignment
• Router Interfaces: Assigned the first usable IP of each subnet.

• PC Hosts: Assigned IPs from the usable range within their respective subnet.

2
Simulation and Results
The simulation was performed using Cisco Packet Tracer. The following results were
observed:

• PC-to-PC Communication: Successful communication was established between


PCs in different subnets.

• PC-to-Router Communication: All hosts successfully communicated with their


connected routers.

• Router-to-Router Communication: Static routes were configured and vali-


dated, enabling communication across routers.

Discussion
Advantages of Static Routing
• Simple and cost-effective.

• Predictable traffic flow.

• No overhead from periodic updates or dynamic computations.

Limitations of Static Routing


• Manual reconfiguration required for network changes.

• Lack of adaptability to network failures or topology changes.

• Suitable primarily for smaller, stable networks.

Conclusion
The network design using static routing and VLSM provides an efficient, scalable, and
straightforward solution for managing multiple subnets. By implementing static routing,
the network is stable and secure, with minimal overhead and predictable traffic flow. The
VLSM approach optimizes IP address utilization, reducing wastage and ensuring each
subnet meets its specific requirements. This architecture is ideal for small to medium-
sized networks, offering a reliable foundation for further network growth or advanced
features.

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