Home labs & practical projects
Restore connectivity between two VLANs
A project to do with your own tools, with guidance on what to create and capture.
What you could create
Two office VLANs should reach a shared service but one cannot. A recent switch change is suspected, and you need a systematic configuration diagnosis.
| Source | Destination | Expected result | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| VLAN 10 endpoint | VLAN 20 test endpoint | Reachable through the intended routed path | Record the actual connectivity check |
What you'll need
Network simulator or isolated lab
Choose a platform that supports the switching and routing features you want to practise. Check access terms and feature limitations.
Addressing and port plan
List two VLANs, endpoint addresses, gateways, access ports and the intended inter-VLAN path.
Configuration and test log
Keep the starting configuration, one reversible change at a time and endpoint test results.
Access & cost
Uses your own computer. Confirm hardware capacity, software licences and download terms before setup.
Use disposable VMs, containers or a simulator. Keep the lab separate from your everyday machine and work network.
Suggested milestones
- 1
Build a known-good baseline
Create two small VLANs with a deliberate routed path. Record the addressing and confirm the permitted traffic works before introducing a fault.
- 2
Introduce one bounded fault
In your own lab, change one port assignment or allowed VLAN setting. Save the original value and record the observed symptom.
- 3
Trace the failed path
Check endpoint addressing, port membership, trunk state and the gateway in a sensible order. Tie each conclusion to an observation.
- 4
Repair and verify
Restore the correct setting and test both directions. Check that unrelated traffic still behaves as intended.
One example to adapt
| Source | Destination | Expected result | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| VLAN 10 endpoint | VLAN 20 test endpoint | Reachable through the intended routed path | Record the actual connectivity check |
Useful resources
Use these resources to deepen your understanding and check key details.
Review the current provider requirements and relevant subject areas.
Check relevance, platform versions and current access terms.
Find relevant providers and check features, access requirements and costs.
A useful starting point
Use a suitable network simulator with two switches, two VLANs and an inter-VLAN routing device. Save a working topology before introducing a trunk or VLAN assignment error.
What a good result looks like
- The diagnosis identifies the exact configuration mismatch.
- The repaired topology preserves the intended separation between networks.
Finish the project
Save sanitised evidence, then remove the lab instances or revert to the clean snapshot. Remove temporary accounts and credentials.
Independent home-project guidance, not an official vendor lab or a claim of complete exam coverage. Use your own tools and label the work accurately.