Lab Assignment 5
Title:
To Configure and Understand the Functions of Different Network Devices Such as
Routers, Switches, and Hubs
Objective:
• To understand the role and functions of routers, switches, and hubs.
• To configure a small network using these devices.
• To compare the behavior of each device in terms of data transfer and
communication.
Tools Required:
• Cisco Packet Tracer or any network simulator
• 2–4 PCs
• 1 Router, 1 Switch, 1 Hub (virtual or physical)
• Ethernet cables
• Computer with internet access
Overview of Devices:
Device Function
Router Connects different networks, forwards data packets based on IP addresses
Connects devices in the same network, sends data only to the intended
Switch
recipient
Hub Broadcasts data to all devices connected to it, less efficient
Topology Diagram
1. Router-Based Network (Two Subnets)
Router connecting two switches with different networks.
2. Switch and Hub Configuration
Use either a hub or switch to observe differences.
Procedure:
Step 1: Open Cisco Packet Tracer
• Create a new workspace.
• Add devices: 1 Router, 1 Switch, 1 Hub, and 3–4 PCs.
Step 2: Connect Devices
• Use Copper Straight-Through Cables to connect:
o PCs to Hub/Switch
o Switch/Hub to Router (if needed)
Step 3: Configure IP Addresses
Assign IPs in the same or different subnets depending on topology.
Device IP Address Subnet Mask
PC1 192.168.1.1 255.255.255.0
PC2 192.168.1.2 255.255.255.0
PC3 192.168.1.3 255.255.255.0
Router Interface 1: 192.168.1.254, Interface 2: 192.168.2.254
In Packet Tracer: PC → Desktop → IP Configuration
Step 4: Configure Router Interfaces
• Click on Router → CLI → Enter configuration mode:
Router> enable
Router# configure terminal
Router(config)# interface FastEthernet0/0
Router(config-if)# ip address 192.168.1.254 255.255.255.0
Router(config-if)# no shutdown
Router(config)# interface FastEthernet0/1
Router(config-if)# ip address 192.168.2.254 255.255.255.0
Router(config-if)# no shutdown
Step 5: Test Communication
• Use the ping command from one PC to another.
• Observe how the switch directs traffic vs. the hub broadcasting.
Sample Observations Table
Ping Packet
Test Case Devices Used Comments
Status Loss
PC1 to Direct path via MAC
Switch Success 0%
PC2 address
PC1 to
Hub Success 0% Broadcasted to all ports
PC2
PC1 to
Switch Success 0% Efficient routing
PC3
PC1 to Router (across Router forwards based on
Success 0%
PC4 subnets) IP
Conclusion:
• Router is used to connect different networks and route traffic based on IP
addresses.
• Switch intelligently forwards data to the correct device using MAC addresses.
• Hub broadcasts data to all devices, leading to possible collisions and
inefficiency.
• Switches and routers are preferred in modern networks over hubs.
Submission Requirements:
• Cisco Packet Tracer (.pkt) file
• Screenshots of:
o Topology diagram
o IP configurations
o Router CLI configuration
o Successful ping results
• Observation table and conclusion summary